Speculative: GRS takes early lead in Kebabbing nine-cornered race

GABUNGAN Rakyat Sabah (GRS) is currently leading in the tightly contested nine-candidate race for the Kemabong state seat, according to unofficial vote counts.

Polling in Kemabong concluded ahead of schedule at several stations, due to the relatively small number of registered voters.

New Straits Times cited that early tallies indicate GRS candidate Datuk Rubin Balang securing 402 votes, narrowly outpacing Pakatan Harapan’s Noorita Sual, who has garnered 393 votes. Barisan Nasional’s Datuk Rahmah Jan Sulaiman trails with 143 votes.

The close margin reflects the competitive nature of the contest, with nine candidates vying for the seat.As more results are collated, the race is expected to remain tightly contested, keeping political observers and local voters on alert for the final outcome. - November 29, 2025