Ethnic Factors, Identity and Development Politics in the Sabah State Election

This study examines the relationship between ethnicity, identity and development politics in the context of the Sabah State Elections by focusing on how ethnic diversity influences political support patterns and state development policies. This research uses a qualitative approach through content analysis of online secondary sources such as academic journals and research reports. The findings show that ethnic identity plays an important role in determining political inclinations, the formation of ethnic-based parties, and the development strategies formulated by the state government. This study also highlights how development politics is used as a tool to maintain voter support, particularly among Sabah's indigenous groups such as the Kadazandusun, Murut, and Bajau. Overall, this study provides a deeper understanding of the dynamics of ethnic politics and development in Sabah and its implications for stability and social integration in Malaysia.