DAP’s wipeout in all eight contested seats signals a clear shift among urban Chinese voters, who are moving away from Peninsula-based parties, says a local analyst.
Universiti Malaysia Sabah’s Associate Professor Dr Syahruddin Awang Ahmad described the results as evidence that voters see DAP representatives as distant from grassroots issues.
He highlighted the strong “Sabah for Sabahans” sentiment driving demands for accessible leaders focused on basic needs like water, electricity, and roads.
Rise of Local-Centric Politics
Syahruddin told the New Straits Times that Parti Warisan is now viewed as a stronger champion for Sabah’s autonomy and rights, including the 40 per cent revenue share and MA63 claims.
Past uncertainty from DAP over the revenue entitlement has fuelled doubts among pragmatic voters seeking stable, homegrown leadership.
The party’s emphasis on national issues, coupled with internal challenges, failed to address Sabah’s core socio-economic concerns, he added.
Key Seats Lost
Among the casualties were Sabah DAP chief Phoong Jin Zhe in Likas and deputy chairman Chan Foong Hin in Tanjung Aru.
Sandakan MP Vivian Wong also lost the Elopura seat.
Other defeats came in Luyang, Sri Tanjong, Tanjung Papat, and Kemabong.
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