KOTA KINABALU: Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) president Datuk Chin Su Phin has urged Sabahans to vote rationally and focus on long-term development in the coming state election, saying progress and stability must come before autonomy.
Speaking after chairing the party’s fourth Central Supreme Council meeting for the 2024–2027 term, Chin said Sabah must maintain a constructive relationship with the federal government to secure development funds, noting the 2026 Federal Budget gave Sabah its highest allocation in history.
“Like it or not, Pakatan Harapan still leads the federal government. For Sabah’s sake, we must be pragmatic and maintain good ties so that more resources can flow into the state,” he said.
He reminded voters that the upcoming polls are state-level, not parliamentary.
“Development must come first; autonomy will follow. The real chance to pursue greater autonomy will come in the next general election through Sabah’s 25 parliamentary seats,” he added.
Chin cautioned voters against slogans promising instant autonomy, stressing that strengthening Sabah’s economy and infrastructure first would allow the state to negotiate from a position of strength, similar to Sarawak’s model.
He also urged the public not to be swayed by opposition rhetoric, pointing out that major infrastructure projects still depend on federal funding.
Commenting on UPKO’s decision to contest under its own logo, Chin said it contradicts its role as a Pakatan Harapan component party.
“Cooperation must come with sincerity. You cannot claim to represent PH while using your own logo, it’s confusing and irresponsible,” he said.
Chin reaffirmed that LDP and GRS will continue pursuing pragmatic, stable, and people-first politics. “We must make Sabah strong first. When development and stability are achieved, autonomy will come naturally,” he said.
