KOTA KINABALU: Former Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Dr Salleh Said Keruak believes that it is more beneficial to view friendly competitions — where coalition partners engage in open rivalry while staying united in their objectives.
He stated that this approach is preferable to allowing overlaps to create tension or result in independent candidates acting as proxies.
“In any political coalition, it’s normal for two or more parties to be interested in the same seat.
“In a diverse state like Sabah, this is expected. What matters is how we manage it — with maturity and mutual respect,“ he said in his latest Facebook post.
Salleh asserted that a friendly contest is not a free-for-all.
“It’s a planned, respectful arrangement where parties agree to contest the same seat, with the understanding that whoever wins, the seat remains part of the coalition.
“To manage this effectively, parties must balance political realism with respect for one another’s grassroots presence.
“ Friendly contests are not about ego — they’re about finding practical solutions on the ground,“ he said.
The Sabah UMNO treasurer said that a professional assessment is essential to decide where this approach is suitable.
“It should consider past election results, local support levels, proposed candidates, and potential seat swaps. Poorly managed overlaps risk splitting votes — which ultimately benefits the coalition’s competitor.
“ If at least half of Sabah’s 73 state seats can be settled without overlap, that already builds a strong foundation.
“ For the rest, friendly contests should only be used when negotiations don’t produce agreement — and even then, only with clear understanding,“ he added.
Salleh, who is also the Usukan assemblyman, said this approach helps reduce tension between party machinery, maintains unity, and gives voters clarity.
“It enables cooperation without forcing unrealistic compromises,” he said.
Salleh Said similar models exist elsewhere.
“In India, Germany, and Indonesia, parties may compete in some races while still cooperating in national leadership — proving that managed competition and shared governance can go hand in hand.
“These examples show that political maturity means knowing when to compete and when to come together — without breaking the Alliance,“ he said.
For Sabah (state election) or PRN, the former federal minister said this is a practical and realistic option — if done professionally, with trust and a shared commitment to forming a stable government.
“Some may argue it’s better to go solo and form a coalition after the election. But that creates uncertainty — for voters, candidates, and future governance.
“It opens the door to personal agendas and unstable post-election deals. A pre-election coalition gives clarity, builds trust, and leads to more stable outcomes.
“In the end, voters want leadership that works together, not endless internal friction. What they deserve is a coalition that puts people first — and delivers results,” he added.
