SANDAKAN: Sabah UNNO Information Chief Datuk Suhaimi Haji Nasir has asserted that UMNO Sabah operates with a distinct level of autonomy.
“This autonomy empowers Sabah UMNO to chart and establish its own political course,” he stated in response to a misleading and incomplete report from an online portal regarding UMNO Sabah’s autonomy.
The Member of Parliament for Libaran emphasised that to date, UMNO Central has never directed or interfered in the affairs of Sabah UMNO, particularly concerning the selection of coalition partners for the upcoming Sabah elections (PRN).
“UMNO Central, through its Supreme Council, merely advises UMNO Sabah on collaboration with Barisan Nasional and Pakatan Harapan to ensure political stability in Sabah, as both coalitions are fundamental to the formation of the Federal Government.
“This is a lesson learnt from the previous term when three prime ministers and three governments changed within a single term, which was detrimental to the people and the nation,” he remarked.
Suhaimi added that this advice is also rooted in the fact that UMNO is a national party, and it is essential to maintain balance to prevent conflicts between UMNO Sabah and UMNO Central; however, the ultimate decision-making power lies with UMNO Sabah.
“This autonomy is not merely symbolic; it reflects UMNO’s strong commitment to respecting the rights and voices of the people of Sabah.
“This autonomy is reinforced to strengthen UMNO’s position as a leading national party that understands, defends, and advocates for the interests of the people in this state,” he concluded.
