By Daniel John Jambun, President Borneo’s Plight in Malaysia Foundation (BoPiMaFo)
KOTA KINABALU: Borneo’s Plight in Malaysia Foundation (BoPiMaFo) takes note of the growing public discussion across Sabah regarding the possibility of political cooperation between Parti Warisan Sabah and Parti Solidariti Tanah Airku.
For many Sabahans, this conversation goes far beyond electoral politics. It reflects a deeper aspiration that Sabah’s future should be shaped by Sabahans themselves, rather than determined by shifting coalitions dominated by parties from Peninsular Malaysia.
BoPiMaFo believes that greater cooperation among Sabah-based political parties presents a strategic opportunity for the people of Sabah to restore political balance within the Federation.
Ending the Politics of Division
For decades, Sabah politics has been characterised by fragmentation. Local parties frequently contest against one another while larger national coalitions consolidate their influence over the state.
This pattern has weakened Sabah’s negotiating position in federal politics and has slowed progress on critical issues affecting the state, including the full implementation of the Malaysia Agreement 1963, Sabah’s constitutional entitlement to 40% of net federal revenue collected from the state, and the long-standing concerns surrounding illegal immigration.
When Sabah’s political leadership is divided, Sabah’s voice in national decision-making becomes weaker.
Greater unity among Sabah-based parties would allow the state to speak with greater clarity, confidence, and strategic direction.
Restoring Sabah’s Political Dignity
The people of Sabah have long contributed to the strength and prosperity of Malaysia. Yet many Sabahans feel that the state’s constitutional position and economic interests have not always received the attention they deserve.
Political cooperation among Sabah-based parties would represent an important step toward restoring Sabah’s dignity and political confidence.
Such cooperation sends a clear message: Sabah is prepared to engage constructively with the federal government, *but from a position of unity and mutual respect.*
Strengthening the Borneo Voice in Parliament
The significance of Sabah unity extends beyond the state itself.
Together with Sarawak, the Borneo states hold 56 seats in the Dewan Rakyat. In the present era of closely contested parliamentary majorities, these seats have the potential to play a decisive role in shaping the formation of the federal government.
A coordinated political position between Sabah and Sarawak — often described as a *Borneo Bloc* — could provide a stable platform to advance shared interests, including:
* The proper implementation of MA63
* Fair fiscal arrangements between the Federation and the Borneo states
* Stronger protection of Sabah and Sarawak’s natural resources
* Balanced national development that reflects the needs of all regions of Malaysia
A stronger Borneo voice in Parliament would not weaken Malaysia. On the contrary, it would strengthen the Federation by ensuring that its founding principles are respected and upheld.
A Historic Opportunity for Sabah*
The present moment offers a rare opportunity for Sabah’s political leaders to move beyond past divisions and place the long-term interests of the state above short-term political competition.
If approached with sincerity and strategic foresight, cooperation among Sabah-based parties could help restore Sabah’s influence within Malaysia while contributing to a more balanced and stable federal system.
BoPiMaFo therefore encourages all Sabah leaders to recognise the importance of this moment.
Sabah’s future will ultimately depend not on the strength of any single party, but on the ability of Sabahans to stand together in defending the rights, dignity, and aspirations of the people of Sabah.
When Sabah stands united, Sabah’s voice will carry far greater weight — not only in Putrajaya, but across the Federation of Malaysia.
