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The sea warrior returns: Shafie fights to reclaim Sabah and shake up Malaysian politics
The former chief minister is betting that Sabah’s frustration with federal neglect and resource control will propel him back to power and force Kuala Lumpur to share authority.
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Warisan president Shafie Apdal pledging to steer Sabah towards greater autonomy, inspired by Sarawak’s approach to reclaiming control over its lucrative hydrocarbon revenues.
ST PHOTO: LU WEI HOONG
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The eastern coastline of Sabah has come alive again. Bright four-stripped Sambu Layang flags – symbols of the Bajau sea people – flutter above boats and trucks, marking the return of election season.
But beneath the carnival atmosphere, a more consequential current is sweeping through Malaysia’s easternmost state.
