By Remy Majangkim
KOTA KINABALU: In just a few days, Sabahans will head to the polls to decide who will lead our state for the next five years.
This election is not just another routine exercise in democracy—it is one of the most expensive in Sabah’s history, with costs reportedly running into billions.
For those vying to control the state, this is a small price to pay compared to the fortunes they expect to secure once power is in their hands.
Sabah is rich—richer than many care to admit. For decades, politicians from both local and Malayan circles have treated our wealth as their personal jackpot.
Allegations of corruption are only the surface of a deeper problem: leaders positioning themselves for massive windfalls while ordinary Sabahans are left behind.
The people have endured humiliation and manipulation for far too long. The strategy has been simple: keep the population poor, keep them uneducated, and keep them silent.
Questioning elders or those with honorific titles is discouraged, as if respect means surrendering the right to think critically. This feudal mindset has chained Sabah to the past, while politicians enrich themselves at the expense of the people.
Even before ballots are cast, some politicians boast of victory. Such arrogance is not confidence—it is fear disguised as bravado. Sabahans remember well the swarming tactics used to deny Warisan power after the defections of 2020.
The same playbook is being dusted off today, and those who pay attention can see it clearly.
Yet, this unfair advantage also presents an opportunity. Younger voters are watching, and they are not fooled. Social media has amplified their voices, and rallies have energized their spirit.
The youth of Sabah are ready to challenge the old order. Their vote could be the spark that changes everything.
This election is more than a contest of parties—it is a test of whether Sabahans will continue to be silenced, or whether we will finally demand leaders who serve the people, not themselves.
The choice is ours, and the stakes could not be higher.
