Sabah Polls: PH To Avoid 3 Corner Fight Among PH-GRS-BN, Says PM Anwar

Kota Kinabalu, Aug 4 – Pakatan Harapan (PH) is working to avoid electoral clashes among its political allies in the upcoming 17th Sabah State Election, with a focus on promoting unity and preventing vote-splitting, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

Anwar, who is also PH Chairman and President of Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR), said the coalition is prioritizing efforts to prevent three-cornered fights that could weaken the position of the Unity Government in Sabah.

“Our understanding is that, for now, we are trying to secure an arrangement where there is no three-cornered fight or any situation that creates unnecessary conflict,” he said.

“But if it has to happen, our advice is to refrain from contesting so as not to worsen divisions.”

He made the remarks after a closed-door meeting with PKR Sabah leaders and grassroots members at the Pacific Sutera Harbour on Sunday.

Also present were PKR Deputy President Nurul Izzah Anwar, PKR Sabah Chairman Datuk Mustapha Sakmud, and division heads from across the state.

Concerns have been raised over potential clashes between candidates from Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS), PH, and Barisan Nasional (BN)—all partners in the federal Unity Government—especially in overlapping constituencies.

Anwar reiterated that PH is actively engaging in discussions to reach a consensus and ensure seat allocations are coordinated among allies to avoid splitting votes and inadvertently benefiting opposition parties.

He added that cooperation between PH and BN remains strong and is guided by consultations led by the respective election committees.

“We are ready to work closely with both BN and GRS, and this reflects the outcome of continuous dialogue and understanding,” he said.

When asked about public perception of a political “love triangle” involving the three coalitions, Anwar responded with a light-hearted remark: “Love is a beautiful thing — sometimes it comes with a little pain. But that’s what love means.”

Regarding the possibility of voter confusion, especially in constituencies where multiple Unity Government candidates may contest, Anwar acknowledged the risk but maintained that mutual understanding remains the coalition’s top priority.

“Our goal is to secure common ground wherever possible. But in politics, anything is possible — and sometimes, impossible,” he said.

Seat distribution discussions are ongoing, and final decisions will be determined by the respective election committees, he added.