Sabah Umno has shortlisted four individuals as potential candidates for the upcoming by-elections for the Kinabatangan parliamentary seat and the Lamag state constituency.
Sabah Umno Liaison Committee chairman Datuk Jafry Ariffin said the party is evaluating the candidates based on their electability, following extensive engagement sessions with grassroots leaders to secure strong wins in both constituencies.
“We have identified several names and I have taken into account feedback from grassroots leaders. God willing, a decision will be made at the appropriate time,” he said at a press conference after chairing the Sabah Umno Liaison Committee meeting last night.
Jafry, who is also the state minister for tourism, culture and environment, said the shortlisted individuals are male, new faces and viewed as capable of delivering convincing victories for the party.
He said the selection process also considered the results of the previous Sabah state election, during which Umno’s majority in Lamag narrowed, as well as health considerations involving the late Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin, who previously held the seats.
Jafry added that he had met Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor, who had conveyed the intention to defend the Barisan Nasional (BN) seats in Kinabatangan and Lamag.
The Election Commission has set January 24, 2026, as polling day for the Kinabatangan parliamentary and Lamag state by-elections. Nomination day is scheduled for January 10, with early voting on January 20.
The by-elections were called following the death of incumbent Bung Moktar on December 5.
Jafry also said the new Sabah Umno leadership remains committed to pursuing a more inclusive and mature political approach as part of the state unity government.
“Our priority is not only political stability, but ensuring fair, comprehensive and effective development while safeguarding the welfare of the people,” he said.
He stressed that Sabah Umno and BN would continue to act as responsible and disciplined partners in government by working humbly, listening to public concerns and honouring the trust placed in them to build a more prosperous Sabah.
Separately, Jafry announced that Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Salleh Said Keruak will remain as Sabah Umno treasurer, while Datuk Nik Mohd Nadzri Nik Zawawi has been appointed information chief and Datuk Harun Durabi as assistant secretary.
