Big Names Dramatic Moments And Crowded Fights Mark Sabah S Nomination Day

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NOMINATION Day for the 17th Sabah state election unfolded with all the colour, intensity and unpredictability the state is known for, as political heavyweights, first-time contenders and a record number of independents converged at 25 centres across Sabah this morning.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor, who is also the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) chairman, led the charge by defending his Sulaman seat, submitting his papers at Dewan Seri Sulaman — the same centre where a brief moment of drama unfolded.
Parti Kebangsaan Sabah candidate for Kiulu, Dusi Gingging, fainted shortly after arriving at about 7.30am.
He was quickly assisted by Barisan Nasional’s (BN) Dr Shahnon Rizal and Warisan’s Lee Han Kyun before being taken to Tuaran Hospital. A representative filed his papers on his behalf.
Other major figures also formalised their bids: BN’s Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin for Lamag, Warisan’s Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal for Senallang, PCS president Tan Sri Anifah Aman contesting Bongawan under the GRS banner, Parti Bersatu Rakyat Sabah leader Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup vying for Sook, and USNO president Tan Sri Pandikar Amin Mulia contesting Pintasan.
Sabah’s famously fluid political landscape added another twist as Parti Gagasan Rakyat Sabah confirmed three members would run as independents despite warnings of immediate expulsion.
Among them is incumbent Pintasan assemblyman Datuk Fairuz Renddan, now challenging his party’s chosen candidate.
Adding to the day’s vibrancy, an extraordinary 13-way fight emerged in Tamparuli, where incumbent MP Datuk Seri Madius Tangau faces candidates from PIS, STARSabah, Anak Negeri, Warisan, KDM as well as GRS — and six independents, including Johan Jahid, son of former PBS strongman Datuk Jahid Jahim.
Throughout the morning, supporters arrived as early as 6am, many clad in party colours and traditional attire. Police and RELA personnel maintained calm as weather conditions stayed favourable.
With nominations closed at 10am, candidates now embark on a 14-day campaign leading to early voting on Nov 25 and polling day on Nov 29. —  Focus Malaysia

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