Leadership is Proven by Vision, Not Political Role Play

                               Terence Au

By Terence Au, 7-6-2025

WE take note of the recent suggestion by former State Assemblyman J. Ligunjang, calling for Warisan to present a shadow Cabinet ahead of the next state election. While we welcome constructive ideas that seek to elevate political discourse, we must also address the underlying assumptions of this suggestion.

Let us begin by affirming: Warisan does not shy away from accountability or transparency. We have consistently fielded candidates with professional qualifications, and grassroots legitimacy across Sabah’s diverse communities — from the east coast to the interior, from Muslim to non-Muslim Bumiputera, and from Chinese  communities. Our multiracial DNA is not just a slogan — it is embodied in our leadership, policies, and vision for Sabah.

However, the call for a “shadow Cabinet” presumes a Westminster-style system that has little practical relevance within Sabah’s political context. Unlike in the UK where opposition parties are institutionally recognised and supported to form shadow ministries, Malaysia’s political structure offers no such formal role. Instead, leadership is demonstrated through performance, not performative lists.

The real test of readiness is not whether a party can publish a shadow Cabinet. It is whether that party has governed before and delivered results. And on that front, Warisan has governed — and we delivered -- though for only 2 years.

We stabilised political leadership without federal interference.

And we governed with dignity, not through backdoor deals or defections.

If Sabahans are looking for a capable and diverse government, they need only look at Warisan’s record — not a hypothetical list.

Furthermore, let us not reduce governance readiness to an exercise in racial arithmetic. While inclusivity is vital — and Warisan has always embodied this — competence, integrity, and policy vision must remain the central criteria. It is the failure to prioritise these qualities that has left Sabah with infrastructure breakdowns, widespread corruption, and development gaps under the current GRS administration.

We respect J. Ligunjang’s right to express concern. But let it be known — Warisan’s strength lies not in pre-election gimmicks, but in post-election governance. When given the mandate, we do not merely promise diversity. We deliver leadership.

And when the time comes, the people will judge us not by who we announce in a list — but by what we stand for, what we have done, and what we will do.

Terence Au is Warisan Wira Chief.