Sabah state election turnout seen as respectable, consistent despite wet weather

SHAH ALAM - The 64.35 per cent voter turnout recorded in the recent Sabah state election has been viewed by political analysts as respectable and consistent with previous trends, despite rainy conditions and longstanding accessibility challenges in the state.

Political analyst Associate Professor Dr Syaza Shukri said the turnout reflected a reasonable level of engagement for a state election held mid-parliamentary term.

The 64.35 per cent voter turnout recorded in the recent Sabah state election has been viewed by political analysts as respectable and consistent with previous trends, despite rainy conditions and longstanding accessibility challenges in the state. - Bernama photo

“From my perspective, the 64.35 per cent turnout is respectable for a state election held mid-parliamentary term.

“Naturally, the excitement is lower than during a general election and although early voting saw higher participation, Sabah’s longstanding connectivity issues make this figure reasonable,” she told Sinar Daily.

Syaza pointed out that Sabahan voters continued to struggle with long-standing accessibility issues, as many have to consider the economic costs and lengthy travel distances before deciding whether to vote.

She added that while the mandate given by voters was clear, it was not particularly strong.

“The result provides an acceptable mandate, though not an overwhelming one. This means the government must quickly demonstrate that it deserves the confidence given, while the opposition will likely frame the outcome as fragmented.

“Even so, I believe the government’s legitimacy is clear. High turnout often signals a high-stakes election, but this one was more typical, with results that were expected to maintain the status quo.

“This suggests a level of contentment with Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor’s administration before polling,” she said.

Syaza reiterated that expanding voting accessibility must remain a key priority. She stressed that improving connectivity was important, but added that she has long advocated introducing absentee voting.

Allowing rural voters or Sabahans residing in Peninsular Malaysia to vote early or by post would make participation significantly easier.

Meanwhile, Pacific Research Centre of Malaysia principal adviser Dr Oh Ei Sun described the turnout as aligned with historical patterns.

“The voter turnout was consistent with previous election trends and was already commendable given the wet weather.

“In rural constituencies, however, voters often face significant infrastructural challenges, including poor road conditions and long journeys to polling stations, which can cost them half a day’s or even a full day’s income.

“Many also lack transportation options beyond walking, making participation difficult,” he said when contacted.

Oh also highlighted that Sabah’s coalition government may need to put in additional effort to maintain public confidence.

As an administration made up of parties with varying levels of support and differing priorities, he said it must work harder to ensure both legitimacy and stability. He added that continuous voter engagement remained an essential responsibility.

“Political parties and NGOs also need to intensify efforts to engage and educate traditionally disenfranchised groups, encouraging them to vote. Such outreach, however, demands substantial human and material resources,” he said.

The Sabah state election recorded 1,148,476 voters, achieving the 64.35 per cent turnout targeted by the Election Commission.

Despite heavy rain in several areas, all 882 polling centres opened on schedule, indicating that weather may not have significantly hampered participation.