Sabah DAP suffered a complete wipeout in state election, losing all eight seats it contested, which activists and analysts link to growing frustration among Chinese voters.
Activist Johan Ariffin Samad said many now see the once-outspoken party as “muted” after joining the federal government.
He described DAP as having become similar to MCA, leaving supporters, including non-Chinese voters, deeply disappointed.
Economic Woes and “Greed” Perception
Johan highlighted Chinese community anger over economic hardships and perceived unfair treatment, especially for small business owners.
Analyst James Chin pointed to resentment over DAP leaders who are MPs contesting state seats, calling the move “greedy”.
Voters also rejected the idea that a Peninsular-based party could truly represent Sabahan Chinese interests.
Anti-Federal Sentiment Hits PH Hard
The federal government’s appeal against parts of the High Court ruling on Sabah’s 40% revenue entitlement further fuelled anti-federal feelings.
James Chin said Sabahans did not accept explanations that the appeal was only about wording, not the formula itself.
Awang Azman Awang Pawi noted the rising “Sabah for Sabahans” sentiment since 2020 made PH the biggest casualty.
He said GRS and BN successfully built a local narrative through leaders like Hajiji Noor and Bung Moktar Radin, while PH relied on figures seen as outsiders, including Yamani Hafez Musa, Ruji Ubi, and Jamawi Jaafar.
