BN brushes off survey, says Sabahans fed up with GRS rule

Sabah Umno information chief Suhaimi Nasir has dismissed a recent survey claiming Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) is leading ahead of the upcoming state polls, saying the findings do not reflect realities on the ground.

Suhaimi was responding to Ilham Centre’s survey findings reported by Free Malaysia Today yesterday, which placed GRS in front based on several factors, including its position as the ruling government.

“On the principle of democracy, BN respects the academic survey, but stresses that we are not affected by the narrative.

“In my view, it clearly does not reflect current political realities and ignores the true voice of the people on the ground,” he said in a statement.

BN’s own long-term field assessment, he said, showed a strong sentiment and a “big wave” calling for a change of administration.

Suhaimi (above) cited Sabah Chief Minister Hajiji Noor’s failure to address long-standing issues such as unreliable water supply, power outages, and poor road conditions - despite large allocations from the federal government.

“Political history has proven that the advantage of government machinery does not guarantee victory.

"Several previous governments have fallen despite having all the resources, because the true direction of politics is determined by the people’s trust and confidence,” Suhaimi added.

Yesterday, Ilham Centre CEO Hisomuddin Bakar said a study showed that GRS appeared to have consistent support across most of the state, while the majority of voters were drawn to candidates with prominent personalities and parties with strong influence, factors in which GRS had the edge.

Hisomuddin also said that GRS particularly enjoyed strong support in Kadazandusun-Murut and bumiputera-Muslim areas.

In rebutting the survey findings, Suhaimi cited several factors contributing to what he claimed was a decline in public confidence toward GRS.

The factors include handling of matters arising from the tragic death of Form One student Zara Qairina Mahathir, as well as perceived inaction surrounding the mining exploration licence corruption scandal.

Survey’s benchmark

Suhaimi went on to question Ilham Centre’s benchmark for claiming GRS is in the lead.

“If we look at the ground realities, it is clear that the people are increasingly fed up with the weaknesses of this administration.

"People’s confidence cannot be built merely through reports or statements by certain quarters.

"If an administration is truly effective, the people themselves will recognise and elevate it without needing to be paid or promoted through biased evaluations,” he said.

Suhaimi further insisted BN has a strong record of achievements and proven governing experience.

“The ‘Blue Wave’ to be held on Sept 21 at Magellan Sutera is not just an ordinary gathering, but a symbol of the Sabah people’s awakening to return to stable, consistent, and credible leadership.

"Sabahans are now ready to close the chapter on GRS’ weak administration and open a new page with BN - a coalition that has consistently safeguarded the interests of the state and its people,” he added.

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