Unlike Sabahans who can switch to local parties like Warisan or Gabungan Rakyat Sabah, disgruntled Pakatan Harapan supporters in the peninsula have few credible options and may simply sit out the next general election, analysts say.
Syaza Shukri of International Islamic University Malaysia noted that parties like Muda and PSM do not seriously threaten PH on the mainland.
In Sabah, voters see both Warisan and GRS as truly local, while DAP is often viewed as a Peninsular party out of touch with state concerns.
DAP Struggles with Local Issues
Azmi Hassan from Akademi Nusantara said urban Chinese voters in Sabah felt DAP appeared aloof and failed to emphasise key state matters such as the Malaysia Agreement 1963 and the 40% revenue claim.
He believes many either stayed home last Saturday or backed Warisan and GRS because Sabah DAP focused little on these burning local issues.
Pakatan Harapan managed only one seat, Melalap, out of 22 contested, with DAP losing all eight seats and PKR dropping its strongholds of Api-Api and Inanam.
Lessons for GE16
To avoid a similar rout nationwide, Azmi urged PH to prioritise bread-and-butter concerns that vary by state instead of just national talking points.
Syaza recommended giving Sabah and Sarawak chapters more freedom to address local sentiments and counter rising anti-federal feelings.
Former Klang MP Charles Santiago echoed the call, advising DAP to refocus on cost of living, accountability, transparency, and public service rather than political manoeuvring.
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