The recent Sabah state election has left many prominent figures licking their wounds. From ex-chief ministers to deputy ministers, the election saw a significant shake-up in the political landscape.
A Shocking Turn of Events
The 17th Sabah state election, held on November 30, 2025, was a game-changer. It witnessed the downfall of several well-known personalities, including former ministers and party leaders. Let's delve into the list of those who faced unexpected defeats:
- Datuk Chan Foong Hin (PH): The Deputy Plantation and Commodities Minister lost his bid in Tanjung Aru.
- Datuk Mohamad Alamin (BN): The Deputy Foreign Minister's attempt to secure Bogawan fell short.
- Tan Sri Anifah Aman (PCS): President of Parti Cinta Sabah, he was defeated in Sook.
- Datuk Seri Ronald Kiandee (PN): Sabah Perikatan Nasional chairman and PPBM's Sabah chief, Kiandee, returned to Sugut after a long hiatus but failed to win.
- Tan Sri Pandikar Amin Mulia (GRS): A former Dewan Rakyat Speaker, he lost in Pintasan.
- Abu Bakar Ellah (KDM): A renowned Sabah actor and singer, Ellah's campaign in Kuamut didn't yield success.
- Priscella Peter (KDM): President of Kesejahteraan Demokratik Masyarakat, Peter's bid in Melalap was unsuccessful.
- Michel Alok @ Ilok (PIS): President of Parti Impian Sabah, he faced defeat in Telupid.
- Phoong Jin Zhe (DAP): Sabah DAP chairman, Zhe, lost in Likas.
- Datuk Dr Ismail Idris (Rumpun): President of Parti Rumpun Sabah, Idris' campaign in Sebatik didn't pan out.
- Datuk Mohamaddin Ketapi (Independent): Former Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister, Ketapi, ran as an independent in Segama but didn't win.
- Datuk Yamani Hafez (PH): Son of Yang Dipertua Negeri Tun Musa Aman, Hafez lost in Sindumin.
- Datuk Seri Dr Salleh Said Keruak (BN): A former Sabah Chief Minister, Keruak's attempt in Usukan was unsuccessful.
- Terence Siambun (Warisan): Warisan vice-president, Siambun, lost in Moyog.
The Numbers Game
A total of 596 candidates vied for 73 state seats in this highly competitive election.
And here's where it gets controversial... What does this election result signify for the future of Sabah politics? Are these defeats a mere blip on the radar, or do they indicate a significant shift in voter preferences?
This is the part most people miss: the impact of these losses extends beyond the individual candidates. It could shape the political dynamics and influence future alliances and strategies.
So, what's your take on these election outcomes? Do you think these prominent figures will bounce back, or has the political landscape in Sabah undergone a permanent change? Feel free to share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below!
