Still plenty to be done, but Sabah youth confident of Anwar’s leadership

SHAH ALAM - Sabah’s young leaders today sang praises of Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim as the first Prime Minister who is willing to take time to listen to the voices of Sabahans, especially the youth.

Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) Angkatan Muda Keadilan's May Eva Sofea Zainal Abidin and activist Atalia Mae Albert Jaua-Mojuntin credited Anwar for being more open to discussing Sabah’s rights compared to previous leaders and their administrations.

"Before this, no one paid attention to the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), but PMX is prepared to listen to Sabah leaders," she added.

Speaking during the recent episode of Kerusi Biru which was moderated by PKR deputy secretary-general Aidi Amin Yazid, they said there was still plenty to be done for Sabah, but most were confident this could be achieved under Anwar’s leadership.

"What we want is a state made up of informed voters and leaders committed to defending Sabah rights under MA63," May said.

She urged the next Sabah Chief Minister to place MA63 at the centre of governance, emphasising that many Sabahans still lacked a full understanding of the long-standing agreement.

"MA63 is a very old issue, but many people in Sabah don’t understand it.

"The Chief Minister must demand our rights when a new government is formed," she added.

Voter education, she stressed, was essential.

"To Sabah voters — read. Don’t rely on TikTok. Read more than one source and do your homework. When voting, don’t follow others. Vote with knowledge, not emotion," she said.

While acknowledging that Sabah has yet to find its "rhythm," she expressed optimism about the rising political awareness among young voters.

She said youth voters today were more conscious and they know what they want.

Atalia echoed the sentiment, insisting that Sabah needed leadership solely focused on safeguarding Sabah’s interests.

She highlighted the steep challenges facing young Sabahans who aimed to reform the state’s political landscape, noting the entrenched nature of dynastic politics.

"It’s a long road for young people. Sabah’s politics is dynastic and big challenges await those who want to see a new Sabah," she said.

When asked whether Sabah has progressed since independence, Atalia did not mince her words.

"The answer is no, not yet. We’re not there yet. We still haven’t found our rhythm, but we are confident with Anwar at the helm," she said.

Both speakers conveyed hope that a more informed and empowered electorate, particularly among the youth could set Sabah on a new trajectory.

They said Anwar was someone willing to listen to the Sabah people's voices and this was important for progress.