Bersatu’s presence in Sabah has virtually collapsed after all 33 candidates it fielded in the recent state election lost their contests, a sharp decline from the 11 seats the party secured in 2020.
The defeat marks a dramatic fall for the party, which once formed part of the state government before a mass departure of its leaders.
Heavy Blow from PAS Breakthrough
The pain is made worse by coalition partner PAS achieving a historic first win in the Karambunai seat, while contesting together under the Perikatan Nasional (PN) banner.
Even prominent figures could not turn the tide. Sabah PN chief Ronald Kiandee, representing Bersatu, was defeated by Gabungan Rakyat Sabah’s (GRS) James Ratib, who secured a fourth term as Sugut assemblyman.
Roots of the Collapse
The poor showing was widely anticipated, as Bersatu had limited time to rebuild its election machinery after GRS chairman Hajiji Noor led most Sabah Bersatu leaders out of the party in December 2022.
Those leaders left to support the federal unity government following the 15th general election, leaving Bersatu with no seats in the state assembly at that time.
Growing Pressure on Party Leadership
The latest results are likely to deepen worries for party president Muhyiddin Yassin, who is already facing internal discontent and growing calls to step down before the next general election.
Voices urging him to hand over the presidency to his deputy, opposition leader Hamzah Zainudin, are expected to grow louder after the Sabah setback.
Meanwhile, fellow PN component party Gerakan also fared poorly, with all three of its candidates losing heavily to Warisan in Luyang, Elopura, and Tanjong Papat.
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