By Lesaya L. Sorudim
KOTA KINABALU: The quiet constituency of Kiulu (N.15), long regarded as a bastion of Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) and since 2020 under the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) umbrella, is now emerging as a political hotspot ahead of the coming state election.
What was once considered a safe seat for PBS may no longer be guaranteed, as leadership friction and shifting alliances begin to reshape the political ground.
At the heart of this contest stands Datuk Joniston Bangkuai, the long-serving assemblyman and a familiar name across Tuaran and Kiulu.
Known for his calm, approachable manner and his efforts in promoting rural tourism through his role as State Assistant Minister of Culture and Tourism and Entrepreneur as well as Chairman of the Sabah Tourism Board, Joniston’s work has brought visible progress to Kiulu — especially in eco-tourism, rural connectivity, and local entrepreneurship.
Yet, despite his achievements, there are growing whispers that internal strains between PBS and PGRS could weaken his grip on Kiulu.
Some local leaders and grassroots members have voiced unease over what they see as unequal treatment between PBS and other GRS components, with PBS often having to “defend” its position within the coalition rather than lead it.
This tension, while subtle, has created a sense of disconnect at the village level, where loyalty to PBS remains strong but frustration over the party’s limited influence within GRS is rising.
The concern among party insiders is clear — that friction between PBS’s traditional base and GRS’s centralized direction might cost the incumbent valuable support. In rural politics, where personal relationships and perceived fairness matter more than slogans, even small divisions can shift outcomes.
The Contenders: A Field of Familiar Names and Fresh Hopes
If all current rumours prove accurate, Kiulu may see one of the most crowded fields in recent memory — a reflection of shifting loyalties and renewed ambitions among local leaders.
Joniston Bangkuai (GRS–PBS) remains the favourite. His record and network give him a formidable advantage. But the very strength of his incumbency also means that he carries the burden of expectations — especially from rural voters who feel that the benefits of development have not reached all corners of Kiulu equally.
Terence Sinti (STAR), who previously contested in 2018, has reportedly rejoined STAR and is tipped to make a comeback. His grassroots connections, especially in interior polling districts, could give STAR a strong footing if the party successfully capitalises on the growing sentiment for a “Sabah for Sabahans” political realignment. If STAR’s momentum continues, Terence could emerge as the dark horse in this race.
Dr. Saibin Ginsari (Warisan), a retired educator, offers a different appeal — representing the professional class and those drawn to Warisan’s autonomy-driven message.
However, Warisan’s declining presence in the Tuaran-Kiulu region could limit his reach unless the opposition manages to coordinate its campaigns effectively.
Meanwhile, Henry Soimpon, the former footballer now representing PKDM, could bring youthful energy and recognition from sports circles. Yet, without deep organisational machinery, PKDM’s challenge lies in converting popularity into votes.
Henry’s role might ultimately be to chip away at both GRS and Warisan’s younger voter base, rather than to capture the seat outright.
Adding to the complexity, Datuk Janih Bangud, a respected former PBS Kiulu Chief and retired government servant, is rumoured to contest as an independent.
Janih’s standing among the older generation and long-time PBS loyalists could fracture the traditional support base of the party. While his chances of victory are slim, his candidacy could hurt PBS more than help it — especially in close races.
Dominic Yasun (Parti Impian Sabah – PIS), who contested previously, is expected to run again under the PIS banner.
While his chances remain modest, his persistence symbolizes the small yet passionate segment of Sabahans who believe in building alternative political voices free from large coalitions.
There is also speculation that Dr. Rosalyn Gelunu, who once contested under the LDP in 2018, may return as an independent candidate.
With her professional background and local ties, Dr. Rosalyn could draw pockets of support, particularly among women and middle-class voters, though her campaign would likely lack the machinery to mount a serious challenge.
UPKO’s Dilemma and the Madius Factor
Perhaps the most unpredictable development lies with UPKO, once the political powerhouse of Tuaran. After years of shifting alliances — from Barisan Nasional to Pakatan Harapan and then cooperation under GRS — UPKO now appears poised for another recalibration.
It is rumoured that UPKO may break ranks with both PH and GRS to contest independently, fielding either Joisin Romut, a former Political Secretary to Datuk Seri Madius Tangau, or Salbinus Saribun, Madius’s Press Secretary.
Both are well-known figures in Tuaran-UPKO circles, respected for their loyalty and long service.
Should UPKO choose this path, it could reclaim its Kadazandusun grassroots identity — an attempt to reconnect with the party’s original base, which has long felt alienated by national coalition politics.
Either Joisin or Salbinus could become significant spoilers, particularly among moderate voters who remain loyal to Madius but disillusioned with the current political alignments.
The Likely Outcome: A Fragmented but Revealing Battle
Political analysts agree that Joniston Bangkuai remains the frontrunner, backed by incumbency and GRS’s organizational machinery. However, Kiulu’s political landscape is evolving. With at least six or seven potential contenders, the constituency could witness a highly fragmented vote — one where local personalities matter more than party symbols.
If Terence Sinti (STAR) and UPKO’s independent move manage to attract the disenchanted middle ground, GRS-PBS could face a real challenge. Meanwhile, smaller candidates — from PKDM, Warisan, PIS, and independents — could end up playing decisive spoiler roles.
In essence, Kiulu represents the changing heartbeat of Sabah politics.
Once a secure seat for PBS, it now sits at the crossroads of tradition and transformation. It is a contest not merely for power but for identity — a reflection of whether voters prefer continuity under GRS or a return to locally grounded, Sabah-first leadership.
Regardless of who emerges victorious, one thing is certain: Kiulu will again be the political pulse of Tuaran, and perhaps, the symbolic indicator of where Sabah’s political wind will blow next.
— Lesaya L. Sorudim is a political analyst and columnist focusing on Sabah’s regional dynamics and leadership transitions.
