BN Fields Mohd Naim Kurniawan for Kinabatangan By-Election

KINABATANGAN, El Sky News – Barisan Nasional (BN) has officially named Mohd Naim Kurniawan as its candidate for the upcoming Kinabatangan parliamentary by-election. The announcement confirms that the coalition is looking to maintain its stronghold by fielding the son of the late incumbent, Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin.

The decision was finalized after Mohd Naim met three critical criteria established by the party leadership to ensure a competitive edge in the polls.

The “Winning Formula”

Datuk Jafry Ariffin, Chairman of the Sabah UMNO Liaison Committee, stated that Mohd Naim’s selection was not merely based on lineage but on his proven capability within the party structure. According to Jafry, the candidate satisfied the following prerequisites:

• Organizational Legitimacy: As the current Kinabatangan UMNO Youth Chief, he holds a recognized and formal position within the party hierarchy.
• Grassroots Popularity: He maintains a strong rapport with local members and the community, ensuring high internal morale.
• Capacity to Lead: He is viewed as the most capable individual to carry forward the mandate and legacy of his late father while addressing contemporary local issues.

Election Timeline

The Kinabatangan seat became vacant following the passing of Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin on December 5. In response, the Election Commission (EC) has set the following key dates:

• Nomination Day: January 10, 2026
• Polling Day: January 24, 2026

Central Leadership Support

The move has received a “green light” from BN’s central leadership. Chairman Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi noted that Mohd Naim’s youthful energy and established connection with the Kinabatangan electorate make him a strategic choice to retain the seat for the coalition.

Observers suggest that by fielding Mohd Naim, BN is banking on a combination of “sympathy votes” and the established political machinery built by his late father over the decades.