Tribute to Bung Moktar Radin: Sabah's Political Pathfinder Passes Away at 66

Post by : Raina Nasser

The political landscape of Sabah is grieving the loss of Bung Moktar Radin, renowned for his pivotal role as the former deputy chief minister and chairman of the Barisan Nasional (BN) coalition, who died at the age of 66. His passing occurred just days after he led BN to a significant victory in the 17th Sabah state election, successfully retaining his Lamag constituency. His son, Naim Kurniawan Moktar, confirmed the news on Facebook, stating that his father succumbed to a severe lung infection early Friday morning at 1.46am after hospitalization. Complications from his kidneys aggravated his already critical condition.

Bung Moktar held the position of Sabah's deputy chief minister from September 2020 to January 2023, also serving as the works minister. He was a long-standing federal Member of Parliament for Kinabatangan, a role he first achieved in 1999 and sustained over six consecutive terms. His steadfast and straightforward approach in politics was instrumental in stabilising BN's standing in Sabah after its significant decline post-2018 General Election, especially amidst controversies surrounding the 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) case.

During the 2020 Sabah state election, Bung collaborated with Hajiji Noor of Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (Bersatu), aiming to overthrow the Warisan government led by Shafie Apdal, successfully reinstating UMNO's power in the region. This coalition enabled him to assume the deputy chief minister position. Nevertheless, political friction later arose, resulting in Bung's withdrawal of BN from the state government in a strategic move to contest Hajiji's authority. Despite these tensions, Hajiji's Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) government remained stable, leading to Bung's eventual removal from the Cabinet.

Beyond political strategy, Bung Moktar's commitment to strengthening the Sabah division of UMNO was notable. He played a key role in rejuvenating the coalition, solidifying its relevance against a backdrop of senior leader departures. In pre-election discussions, he emphasized youth engagement and political tactics, distinguishing BN from GRS by acknowledging their “nightmare history.”

In the aftermath of his passing, numerous tributes underscored his extensive influence. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim characterised him as a principled leader dedicated to the people of Sabah and Malaysia. BN chairman and Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi expressed his personal sorrow, highlighting Bung as a steadfast ally. Leaders from the Warisan party, including Shafie Apdal and Sabah UMNO's Salleh Said Keruak, also recognized Bung Moktar's long-standing contributions to the region's political evolution and growth.

Bung Moktar Radin's demise marks a poignant chapter in Sabah’s political narrative, leaving a legacy characterized by resilience, leadership, and unwavering service to the public. His decades-long dedication to both state and federal politics, particularly in revitalizing BN in Sabah and shaping governance, will remain a touchstone for constituents, colleagues, and political analysts alike.