East Malaysia is the key to hold off that ‘blue wave’

Following the recent Negeri Sembilan state election, there is growing concern that Barisan Nasional and Perikatan Nasional may unite once again for the next general election. This BN-PN alliance threatens Pakatan Harapan's efforts to win over the Malay community, despite PH's best attempts. Various ideas have been proposed to stop a BN-PN clean sweep, but it may be too little, too late.

While promoting a clean government and economic growth is crucial, it won't compete with the rising communal politics. Anwar Ibrahim and PH seem uncertain about how to stop the "blue wave". It may be time for Anwar and PH to turn their attention to East Malaysia. Sabah and Sarawak have a different political culture compared to the Peninsular, where racial and religious issues dominate.

In the last Sabah polls, there was a strong "Sabah first" sentiment, not rooted in race or religion. This sentiment is likely to continue in Sarawak's upcoming polls. PH should consider giving East Malaysia more attention and potentially accommodate their demands for more seats. Sarawak also has the advantage of being free from Umno's influence.

Following BN's wins in Johor and Negeri Sembilan, Sabah is now witnessing a struggle for power, with calls to remove Arthur Joseph Kurup, the BN chairman of Parti Bersatu Rakyat Sabah. If East Malaysia returns the favor when the time comes, it could be a significant shift. The Madani government has been accommodating to East Malaysia, so why not take it a step further?

Don't let the BN-PN combo gain more ground by offering empty promises. Both Sabah and Sarawak are unique and will remain distinct, so let's give them the attention they deserve.