Tuaran: The increase in the number of parties contesting in the 17th Sabah State Election makes it imperative for voters to make a wiser assessment by choosing candidates that truly represent their aspirations and are free from the risk of party-hopping, said UMNO information chief Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said. She emphasized the importance of selecting representatives who are committed to serving constituents and adhering to the Anti-Party Hopping Act introduced after the 15th General Election.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Azalina highlighted that candidates should prioritize providing the best service to the people, ensuring that elected representatives start their duties immediately after the election. She warned against electing candidates who may switch political parties or only engage with the public during election periods, as this would be detrimental to the community's interests.

Azalina, who also holds the position of Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Law and Institutional Reform), made these remarks while speaking to reporters after visiting the 'Justice on Wheels' legal aid clinic programme at the Tuaran Public Market compound. She further stressed the necessity for any state government elected in the Sabah polls to maintain strong relations and cooperation with the federal government.

She elaborated on Malaysia's foundation as a federation, highlighting the need for ongoing discussions between state and federal levels to ensure effective policy implementation and development. Azalina pointed out that no state government can function independently, as even opposition-led states participate in monthly meetings with the Menteri Besar and Chief Ministers.

Despite some political parties campaigning on the 'Sabah for Sabahans' ideology, she noted that Sabah's relationship with the federal government remains essential and inescapable.