LIGHT rain across Sabah this morning did little to deter voters determined to shape the state’s political future, with long queues forming before polling stations opened at 7:30 am in the hotly contested 17th state election.
Strong early turnout was reported in Penampang, Tuaran, Sook and Kinabatangan, where voters, including elderly citizens assisted with wheelchairs, arrived as early as 7 am.
The Election Commission praised the smooth conduct of early voting earlier last week, which recorded an impressive 92.5% turnout among 17,615 military, police personnel and their spouses across 58 centres.
With all 73 seats up for grabs, the election remains wide open. Conflicting forecasts have emerged: Ilham Centre predicts GRS as the largest bloc with around 26 seats.
However, other analysts see Warisan surging to the same number on the back of urban discontent and the popular “join the ship” wave among Chinese voters, and gains in Momogun areas.
Chinese-majority urban seats show signs of shifting away from Pakatan Harapan due to dissatisfaction over economic issues, cost of living and corruption.
GRS and UMNO are expected to retain many of their traditional strongholds, but with reduced numbers.
BN, the coalition headed by UMNO, is projected to take nine seats, while PN may capture Karambunai and Sugut. A low voter turnout is expected to benefit incumbents.
At least 23 constituencies are considered too close to call. Analysts say the final outcome could range from a slim majority for one coalition to a hung assembly requiring post-election negotiations.
Voting is being held at 882 polling centres with 3,559 streams, giving 1.74 mil registered voters the chance to choose a new state government.
A total of 596 candidates from 22 political parties, along with 73 Independents, are contesting 73 state seats. The most contested seats include Tulid (14 candidates), Bandau, Tamparuli, and Inanam (13 candidates each), and Banggi (12 candidates).
Polling closes at 5:30 pm. Results are expected late tonight or early tomorrow. —Nov 29, 2025
Main image: Bernama
