
Sabah BN proposes new power-sharing formula
KOTA KINABALU: Sabah Barisan Nasional (BN) is exploring a new power-sharing formula that aims to ensure fair political representation among Sabah's diverse communities.
Sabah Umno treasurer Datuk Seri Salleh Said Keruak said there are ongoing discussions within the coalition about the matters.
"I would also like to mention the power-sharing system that BN is currently exploring.
"It is not just a matter of power-sharing; we are also looking at political accommodation.
"We feel that in any coalition, no party should act like a 'big brother'.
"We should discuss so that we can consider Bumiputera as both Muslim Bumiputera and non-Muslim Bumiputera.
"We need a formula that can satisfy everyone.
"We will address this, and we are making a commitment to look into it," he said after officiating Sabah Umno Kota Kinabalu division meeting here.
Salleh said BN is preparing a draft commitment for the people of Sabah to tackle the state's fundamental issues, which he personally pledges to lead.
Asked about the specific formula he has in mind, Salleh said that discussions with coalition partners are still ongoing.
However, he pointed to past models as a guide.
"When we look at our past, we have ensured a formula that considers both Muslim Bumiputera and non-Muslim Bumiputera," he said.
Recalling his tenure as former Sabah chief minister, Salleh cited the education sector as an example where balanced representation was successfully implemented.
"When I was the Sabah chief minister, I came up with a formula for scholarship were approved by the cabinet.
"I had a quota system back then where 40 per cent of scholarship were allocated to muslim Bumiputera, 40 per cent to non-Muslim Bumiputera, and 20 per cent non Bumiputera.
"But everything was still merit-based, despite the quota.
"This is an example of what we have done before," he said.
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