Warisan: Cooperation with federal govt must be based on equal partnership, not political dependency
by Nancy Lai · Borneo Post OnlineKOTA KINABALU (Nov 27) Parti Warisan (Warisan) has voiced strong concern over a recent statement by Pakatan Harapan (PH) secretary-general Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution, who suggested that Sabah may face a ‘cold relationship’ with the federal government if the chief minister’s stance does not align with that of the prime minister.
Warisan Supreme Council member and Pensiangan Division chief Mudi Dubing said such remarks are not only inaccurate but also contradict the spirit of the Malaysian federation.
“A subtle warning that Sabah will be ‘disadvantaged’ if its leaders do not toe the line with Putrajaya sends a message that belittles the dignity of the people,” Mudi said in a statement on Thursday.
He stressed that cooperation between the federal and state governments must be built on respect and professionalism, not political dependency or personal loyalty.
“Development should never be portrayed as conditional, as though Sabah will only progress if it submits to the centre,” he added.
Mudi emphasised that Sabah’s entitlements, including the 40 per cent revenue return, basic infrastructure, security, education, and financial allocations, are constitutional rights, not political favours.
He said Warisan remains consistent in asserting that these rights must be restored through legal frameworks, not dependent on any individual’s political relationship with federal leaders.
“Sabah needs a chief minister who defends the state’s rights and negotiates firmly, not one who is merely accepted because he stays silent,” he said.
Mudi reminded that responsibilities such as salaries for police and military personnel, doctors, nurses, hospital construction, disaster management, and other essential services are mandatory federal functions under the constitution.
“These are not political gifts, but obligations owed by the federal government to all Malaysians, including Sabahans,” he said.
He said Sabahans should not be pressured by narratives suggesting that only candidates close to Putrajaya can ‘save’ Sabah.
“Sabah’s long history proves that personal connections do not always translate into benefits for the people. Progress only comes when the state is led by those who are firm, consistent, and not dependent on political goodwill,” he said.
Mudi said Sabah requires a leadership that derives stability from a clear and principled stance, not blind reliance on federal approval.
He reiterated that Warisn believes Sabah can work with the federal government without sacrificing its rights or dignity.
“Cooperation must exist, but it must be based on Sabah’s position as an equal partner within the Malaysian federation,” he said.
While Warisan respects the federal government and remains open to constructive cooperation, Mudi stressed that such cooperation must not be used as a tool to instil political fear.
“Sabah deserves leaders who dare to speak up, not those shaped by threats that Putrajaya must always be appeased,” he said.