KOTA KINABALU: Sabah UMNO highlights that the disagreement between UMNO Youth Chief Akmal Saleh and DAP leader Teresa Kok should not hinder the collaboration between Barisan Nasional (BN) and Pakatan Harapan (PH) for the upcoming Sabah State Election (PRN17).
This statement comes in response to Chan Foong Hin’s comments, which are perceived as meddling in the party’s internal affairs concerning political cooperation in Sabah.
Datuk Ir. Aziz Julkarnain, Political Secretary to the Sabah UMNO Chief, stated that UMNO Sabah is not desperate to work with DAP but prioritizes political stability for the welfare of the people in Sabah.
“We are not rushing, but this is about our responsibility to ensure that politics in this country remains stable for the people’s well-being,” he asserted.
He also described Chan Foong Hin’s comments as arrogant and not representative of the overall stance of Pakatan Harapan.
“The Prime Minister of Malaysia and PH Chairman, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, has advised Teresa Kok not to address sensitive issues publicly.
“There are proper channels to express opinions, and bringing up such matters publicly will only harm inter-ethnic relations.
“It takes two to tango,’ and open disputes will not strengthen cooperation,” he added.
Regarding the halal certification issue raised, Ir. Aziz clarified that the main goal of halal certification is to assure Muslim customers when choosing food establishments, regardless of the operators’ backgrounds.
“It is not about discrimination, but about avoiding confusion. And it is important to note that it is still under study and not yet implemented,” he explained.
Ir. Aziz also advised Chan to understand the political dynamics in Sabah, which differ from Peninsular Malaysia.
“Sabah is known for its high tolerance among different races and religions,” he said.
