Mustapha Sakmud Appointed New PH Sabah Chief, Signals Stronger Push on MA63 and 40% Revenue Claim
KOTA KINABALU – Sabah’s political landscape took a significant turn as Mustapha Sakmud was officially appointed as the new chairman of Pakatan Harapan (PH) Sabah.
The appointment was decided during a meeting of state component party leaders following the vacancy left by United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (UPKO), which exited the coalition late last year.
Mustapha confirmed that the decision was reached through consensus, underscoring the coalition’s intention to stabilise its leadership structure and reinforce internal unity.
Political observers view the move as a strategic recalibration aimed at strengthening PH Sabah’s organisational framework and positioning the coalition for upcoming political challenges.
Alongside Mustapha’s appointment, Abdul Razak Jamil was named Secretary-General, while Zaidi Jatil will lead the Youth wing. Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe retains his role as Deputy Chairman, Datuk Chan Fong Hin remains Treasurer, and Datuk Jannie Lasimbang continues as Women’s Chief.
PH Sabah, which includes Democratic Action Party (DAP) and Parti Amanah Negara (Amanah), is expected to consolidate its grassroots machinery in the coming months.
Renewed Emphasis on MA63
Mustapha, who also serves as Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Sabah and Sarawak Affairs), highlighted that issues surrounding the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) will remain central to PH Sabah’s agenda.
In particular, he stressed the importance of pursuing Sabah’s 40 per cent net revenue entitlement, a longstanding demand tied to the state’s fiscal rights.
He indicated that the coalition would intensify discussions with federal authorities to ensure that constitutional provisions relating to Sabah’s autonomy and revenue rights are upheld.
The leadership reshuffle marks a new chapter for PH Sabah following structural changes within the coalition. With a clearer command structure now in place, the coalition aims to reinforce political stability while advancing state development priorities and institutional reforms.
This transition is widely regarded as a calculated move to rebuild momentum and reaffirm PH Sabah’s commitment to representing Sabah’s interests at both state and federal levels.
-wilayah.com.my
