DANIEL JOHN JAMBUN, President Change Advocate Movement of Sabah (CAMOS)
KOTA KINABALU — The Change Advocate Movement of Sabah (CAMOS) condemns the statement by Pakatan Harapan (PH) Secretary-General Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution, who warned that Sabah may face a “cold relationship” with the Federal Government if the next Chief Minister does not align politically with the Prime Minister. This remark is not only arrogant but disgracefully exposes Putrajaya’s colonial mindset toward Sabah.
This is a blatant political threat — and an admission that some federal leaders still believe Sabah must tunduk and patuh to Malayan political interests, or risk punishment.
1. Sabah is an equal founding partner of Malaysia — not a subordinate of Malaya.
Saifuddin’s tone directly contradicts the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).
Sabah was never meant to be a junior state under Malayan control.
But his message is clear:
> “If Sabah chooses a CM that KL does not like, Sabah will be penalised.”
This is feudal, not federal.
It proves why Sabah must stand firm and never allow Malaya-based parties to dictate our politics.
2. Federal duties such as paying police, military, doctors and nurses are constitutional — not political gifts to be withdrawn.
Saifuddin’s statement that these essential services depend on whether Sabah cooperates politically is irresponsible.
These obligations are written into the Federal Constitution — they are not bargaining chips.
If PH leaders say these services depend on Sabah’s loyalty to KL, then they are admitting to political blackmail.
3. Sabah’s development failures are due to federal neglect — not because Sabah was “adversarial.”
Hospitals, schools, security posts, flood mitigation, and major infrastructure have all been neglected for decades — even when Sabah governments fully aligned with Putrajaya.
So this idea that “warm ties” bring progress is false.
Warm ties bring progress only to the political elite — not the ordinary Sabahans who still struggle without basic facilities.
4. Sabah’s Chief Minister must serve Sabahans, not curry favour with the Prime Minister.
Saifuddin is essentially saying:
> “Sabah cannot choose its own CM freely. Only KL’s approved CM can ensure development.”
This is the most insulting part.
Sabah’s destiny must be decided by Sabahans alone — not by Peninsular politicians who treat Sabah as a political outpost.
5. CAMOS rejects all forms of federal intimidation.
Sabah will always seek cooperation with Putrajaya, but cooperation as equals, not as subjects.
If Sabah is punished for defending its constitutional rights — like the 40% entitlement under Articles 112C/112D, or for asserting MA63 — then it shows the real problem is not Sabah’s attitude, but Putrajaya’s refusal to treat Sabah fairly.
6. Sabahans must reject any political culture that demands obedience to KL.
Saifuddin has unintentionally revealed the true mindset behind Malaya-based parties:
Sabah’s development is conditional on political submission.
This is unacceptable.
CAMOS urges voters to reject leaders who fear KL more than they love Sabah.
“Sabah’s future cannot depend on whether KL ‘likes’ our Chief Minister.
It must depend on Sabahans and the rights guaranteed under MA63 and the Federal Constitution.”
