KOTA KINABALU: As Sabah prepares for its 17th State Election, a reminder has been issued to voters that true freedom in a democratic nation lies not only in symbolic celebrations but in the act of casting a ballot.
Special Officer to the Sabah Minister of Rural Development, Johan Jahid, made the call in
conjunction with National Month and the upcoming Sabah Day celebrations, urging Sabahans to recognise voting as a powerful expression of patriotism and personal agency.
“Casting a vote is one of the most powerful expressions of liberty in a democratic nation,” he said in a statement on Thursday.
Johan said that while waving the national flag and singing the anthem are important aspects of unity, the right to vote is the clearest demonstration of democratic maturity.
He added that Sabah’s strength lies in its diversity and that this election provides a vital opportunity for voters to select leaders who understand their struggles and are committed to serving the people with integrity.
“The right to vote is a voice and a privilege. It empowers us to decide who represents us in the State Legislative Assembly, who will speak for our rural communities and who will bring development to areas long overlooked,” he said.
Johan also addressed recent calls by some quarters to boycott the polls over unresolved political and institutional issues. While acknowledging the underlying frustration, he urged voters not to disengage from the democratic process.
“Our vote is not a reward to politicians. It is a demand for accountability. Choosing not to vote only delays the change we seek,” he added.
Citing findings from a recent Vodus Research survey, Johan revealed that 32 per cent of voters in Sabah remain undecided. This group, he said, holds the potential to sway the election outcome.
The same survey found that voters are increasingly focused on real and immediate concerns such
as the economy, healthcare, cost of living, job opportunities and corruption, rather than traditional party allegiances.
“This shift shows that voters are looking for solutions, not slogans. Competence, integrity and trustworthiness are now top criteria in choosing candidates, especially among Indigenous and Muslim Sabahans,” he said.
He stressed that for rural voters in particular, the stakes are high. Access to basic amenities, infrastructure, employment and healthcare continues to be a challenge in many districts.
“This election is a chance to elect leaders who will prioritise these issues and deliver results,” he added.
First-time voters are also expected to have a significant influence, with 8 per cent of the electorate voting for the first time. Among those in the B40 income bracket, 42 per cent are reportedly still undecided, underscoring the need for better outreach and voter education.
“Many are understandably weary after years of political instability and unmet promises. But disengaging ensures that those problems remain. We need to reclaim our power through the ballot,” Johan said.
He called on civil society, youth groups and community leaders to step up efforts to educate and encourage voter turnout across Sabah.
“The power lies with the people. That power must be exercised with clarity, confidence and courage.” Do not surrender your voice. Let your vote reflect your aspirations, your values and your commitment to a better Sabah,” he concluded.
