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UMNO Sabah has expressed its intent to hold discussions with the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) coalition to coordinate strategy for the upcoming Kinabatangan parliamentary and Lamag state by-elections
UMNO Sabah is preparing to engage in strategic consultations with the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) coalition ahead of next month’s by-elections for the Kinabatangan parliamentary seat and the Lamag state assembly constituency.
The move underscores the party’s commitment to coordinated decision-making as a component of Sabah’s ruling coalition government.
UMNO Sabah chairman Datuk Jafry Ariffin stressed that the discussions are vital given that UMNO is part of the state’s unity government alongside GRS.
He said reaching a consensus with coalition partners is essential before finalising the party’s strategy for the by-elections.
“I also feel compelled to emphasise that it is necessary for us to discuss with the leadership of the Sabah Unity Government to jointly seek ways and solutions regarding the Lamag state and Kinabatangan parliamentary by-elections,” Jafry told Bernama.
He added that preparations are already underway, with early mobilisation including divisional committee meetings and engagement sessions with grassroots leaders in Lamag, Kuamut, and Sukau.
“Alhamdulillah, we have already secured commitment from the grassroots level to continue our efforts to ensure that the Kinabatangan parliamentary seat and Lamag state constituency can be won, should we be given the opportunity and space to contest,” he said.
UMNO Sabah affirmed that, in principle, the Barisan Nasional coalition should defend both seats, citing the historical record and strong local presence of the late incumbent Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin.
Regarding potential candidates, Jafry explained that the Kinabatangan division has consulted grassroots members and prepared a shortlist of potential nominees.
“The Kinabatangan division has heard the appeals and views from the grassroots level and is ready to propose several new faces, and possibly a family member of the late incumbent. However, the final decision rests with the central leadership,” he said.
The Election Commission has scheduled the Kinabatangan parliamentary and Lamag state by-elections for 24 January 2026, with candidate nominations on 10 January and early voting on 20 January. The by-elections follow the death of Bung Moktar on 5 December.
This announcement highlights UMNO Sabah’s focus on internal coordination and coalition cohesion as it seeks to retain key seats in the upcoming by-elections. - December 16, 2025