Political Vacuum Emerges in Sabah Following Death of Influential Leader Bung Moktar Radin
The political landscape of Sabah, Malaysia, has been significantly altered by the passing of former deputy chief minister Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin at the age of 66. His death, which occurred on December 5, 2025, just days after he successfully contested the Sabah state election, has left vacant both his Kinabatangan parliamentary seat and the Lamag state seat, ushering in a period of electoral uncertainty and strategic maneuvering.
A Life of Controversy and Commitment
Bung Moktar, a prominent and often polarizing figure, was widely recognized for his outspoken approach and fierce dedication to his constituents. While he garnered admiration for his loyalty and decisive leadership, he also faced public scrutiny, notably for a vulgar remark in Parliament in 2018 and ongoing allegations of cultivating opaque patronage networks. At the time of his death, he was facing a high-profile RM2.8 million corruption case, with court proceedings scheduled to resume in January 2026.
Despite his challenging public image, many acknowledged his deep understanding of rural politics. "Bung was obviously a rather controversial figure in both Sabah and national politics," noted political analyst Oh Ei Sun. "He understood the nuts and bolts of how rural politics works, and he was never shy about voicing his concerns in Parliament." Former Sabah chief minister Salleh Said Keruak recounted Bung Moktar's determination, revealing he was "very weak" during the recent campaign but remained committed to engaging with supporters, a testament to his fighting spirit.
Electoral Ripple Effects
The immediate consequence of Bung Moktar’s passing is the need to fill his vacated seats. A parliamentary by-election is confirmed for his Kinabatangan seat, as his death occurred just before the two-year cutoff for requiring such an election before the next general election. This contest will serve as a crucial test for Barisan Nasional (BN) in Sabah, particularly following its recent underwhelming performance in state polls. Losing Kinabatangan, a seat held by BN since 1974, would be a substantial setback for the coalition's efforts to rebuild its influence in East Malaysia and and could signal broader challenges for the unity government’s stability.
The situation for the Lamag state seat is more complex. While a by-election is a possibility, the Election Commission (EC) holds the authority to decide whether to hold one or declare the first runner-up as the winner, contingent on interpretations of the state constitution and election rules. Notably, Bung Moktar had not yet been sworn in for his Lamag seat before his demise.
Family and Legacy
Bung Moktar Radin succumbed to complications from a severe lung infection and kidney failure at Gleneagles Hospital in Kota Kinabalu. He is survived by his two wives, Datin Seri Nor Asidah Alimuddin and former actress Zizie Izette Abdul Samad, and nine children. His son, Naim Kurniawan Moktar, shared the news of his father's passing.
His death not only concludes a colorful political career but also opens a significant chapter of political uncertainty for Sabah, forcing a re-evaluation of alliances and strategies ahead of Malaysia's next general election.