Sabah Umno needs to rebrand itself as strategic partner, says analyst

 Syahruddin Awang Ahmad says the party must work with local partners and show that it is not an external threat.

Sabah BN leaders and members before the state election in November last year. (Facebook pic)

PETALING JAYA:

 Sabah Umno needs to rebrand itself as a strategic partner that champions local aspirations instead of trying to reassert its dominance in the state, an analyst said.

Syahruddin Awang Ahmad of Universiti Malaysia Sabah said local sentiment is a growing factor in the state’s political landscape, as evident in the last state election.

At the polls held on Nov 29 last year, Gabungan Rakyat Sabah and Warisan secured the most number of seats, while Barisan Nasional only managed six. PKR lost two traditional seats, and DAP was wiped out.

“Umno needs to dial down its push to reassert its dominance in Sabah.

“Such an approach will help position them as a strategic partner and would not be seen as an external threat,” Syahruddin told FMT.

He said Umno must bolster its cooperation with local parties and offer a more inclusive and realistic development agenda.

On Saturday, Sabah Umno treasurer Salleh Said Keruak said the party must review its role in the state, with voter support now split among several parties.

He said strategy, cooperation, and a clear direction are the way forward for the party, especially in Sabah, and Umno’s success at the polls hinges on the right strategy and partnership.

Arvin Tajari of Universiti Teknologi Mara said Sabah must promote the next generation of leaders, especially among the youth and Puteri wings, it if wants to remain relevant in the state.

“Their voices are somewhat muted in the political arena, despite it being vital to prove that the party has a new generation of leaders,” he said. - FMT