Airtime With Ronnie Klassen (2025)

23/06/2025

From The Desk Of... Ronnie Klassen

Tensions, Desperation and Street Demonstration are mounting (with the stakes so high), coupled with an avalanche of insinuations, have propelled a large segment of politicians to renegade their purpose.

Arm chair critic's and key board warriors are diligently on their prowl, at every nook and corner of social media with their continuous bickering and bashing...!!! Stone age politics.

Some have hallucinated having owned a crystal ball, suggesting that certain political parties from the ruling administration are preparing to disassociate itself, before the dissolution of the state assembly.

There again in politics, anything and everything is possible..... wishful thinking to most.

Politics is at times morally ambiguous. It is in your moments of decision that political destiny is shaped. A's the saying goes, "He who is not courageous enough to take risk will accomplish nothing."

Choosing to resort to street demonstrations to argue a cause in today's time and age, doesn't constitute courage. It portrays desperation, especially with bankrupt solutions.

On another matter, Sabah UMNO in a statement, is exploring a new power sharing formula that aims to ensure fair political representation among Sabah's diverse communities within their coalition partners. The statement further added that, "In any coalition, no party should act like a big brother."

While power sharing has now become the fundamental and ONLY formula towards the establishment of an elected government, never undermine the political intelligence of society.

The 17th state elections is just around the corner and it's irreversible. The 5 years of the current administration is about up, and it's back to the mandate of the people.

While it maybe safe to say, that the current GRS/PH administration is not in the brink of collapse, nevertheless, resting on its laurels may navigate them into the history books.

Have a great day ahead.

19/06/2025

From The Desk Of.... Ronnie Klassen

People always tend to look for constellation in politics - a pattern that reflects consistency(both in words and action), and not just being bystanders.

Politicians across the board, earns it's reputation in what they do. Political rhetoric's has lost it's flavour. Society can't be fooled at the whim's and fancies of delusional politicians, everytime.

Greatness requires greatness - hence a government of the people, for the people and with the people, as we hope and dream.

Tensions are mounting, stakes are high, and armchair critic's/keyboard warrior's are on their prowl from both sides of the aisle, desperately justifying their Knight In Shinning Armour.

To assume or imply, that the coming state elections is merely a formality, just to fulfill a constitutional obligation - THINK AGAIN.

This time around, a Forensic Accountability (in it's political sense), tailored to determine which side of the aisle warrants the support and vote of the people will be the game changer.

Politicians (past and present), who had once considered themselves as "political assets", have now been viewed and downgraded as "stressed assets". No one escapes the eye in social media.

As Sabah prepares for the 17th state elections, all forms of holistic progress must have a clear and comprehensive policy and roadmap for the well being of every layer of society.

Political scheming has become so transparent and professing political sympathy further acknowledges incompetency and desperation.

With the elections round the corner, Hajiji Noor's justification and clear vision, that local parties must dominate Sabah politics and prioritized, when forming alliance.

Any discussion on cooperation with other parties should not come at the expense of local leadership.

Meanwhile in a statement by MACC, 2 Assemblymen and another individual would be charged in connection with the alleged mining scandal.

In response, CM Hajiji Noor stated his administration would leave the matter to the authorities and the courts. The matter will not affect the running of the state government.

As the ruling administration sits comfortably in pole position, while the Opposition desperately struggles to make headway, no matter how lost their cause maybe, the leadership within GRS, depends very mush on how CM Hajiji Haji Noor steers the coalition in benefitting the state and people, in order to obtain a second term.

The countdown has begun as the people awaits news on the dissolution of the assembly.

Have a great day ahead.

14/06/2025

From The Desk Of ... Ronnie Klassen

FRIENDLY CONTEST, BETRAYAL, UNITY and POLITICAL STABILITY are words frequently used to weaponized political power.

Yet, a government cannot allow itself to be dictated to the whimps and fancies of a higher hierarchy - hence the clarion call, " Sabah For Sabahans."

Should the upcoming state elections becomes a contest between local versus national parties, the outcome could reshape Sabah's political landscape and redefine it's federal-state relations.

With the stakes so high, all eyes will now be on the alliance, manifestos and largely voter sentiments.

With the growing fragmentation among parties leading to multi-cornered fights in many seats (unless an agreed deal has silently been concluded) split votes may give unexpected advantage to some blocs.

Will this probably result in a hung assembly? If at all a unifying factor develops, it will depend very much on how politicians maneuver the chess board.

But what's cooking in Anwar Ibrahim and Zahid Hamidi's kitchen?

Political Power and Political Stability are words designed with the absolute intent to garner authority, while the politically less fortunate hibernate in retribution.

Political ideologies differ among politicians. Only sincerity and integrity separates them- if at all it's even possible.

So, if the clarion call, "Sabah For Sabahans" is to see the light of day, promoting inclusivity must be seen as happening rather than being mesmerized by a narrative to appease society.

" The ultimate measure of a politician is not where they stand in moments of accomplishment, but where they stand at times of challenge and controversy."

Have a great weekend ahead.

07/06/2025

From The Desk Of.... Ronnie Klassen

Good governance depends on the ability to take responsibility by both the administration as well as the people.

What contesting parties, coalitions or candidates in the upcoming state elections, should be doing is mirroring themselves, then tell the people, you have the SOLUTIONS to make Sabah great again.

Alliance based on political convenience often result in internal power struggles and weak governance....the Langkah Kinabalu is a perfect example.

A government cannot allow itself to be dictated to the whimps and fancies of a higher hierarchy that decides. ....a case of a puppet being remotely control by a puppeteer.

An alliance should not just be about winning an election. It must be built on a clear vision, strong policies, solution based and long term stability to govern effectively.

We elect leaders to serve the people, not to preserve power or prioritize profits.

It is in moments of decision that your destiny is shaped. UNITY.....when it's purpose is desired. In politics nothing happens by accident. If it happens, you can bet it was planned that way.

Have a great weekend.

01/06/2025

From The Desk Of.... Ronnie Klassen

He who is not courageous enough to take risk, will accomplish nothing.!!

The current political trend is towards coalition-based transformation. So expect fierce competition, and nothing less.

The fluidity of Sabah's political landscape may allow each coalition to assert dominance in it's own stronghold.

This is inevitable, as the current political environment and it's undercurrent has unveiled a defining moment for the state. This moment calls for courage, not political expediency.

The forthcoming polls is also a decisive frontier for parties to prioritize the state over party loyalty and who are ready to stand up for what is right, even if it means going against their own political factions.

Political medicine peddlers disguising as defenders of the people, promising to uplift the status and well being of the state, have lost the plot.

Over the festive weekend, Sabah celebrated Kaamatan, only to be told that " demand Sabah's rights by negotiations, not by shouts and verbal abuse ( maki hamun)."

This is not about shouting, it's about standing up. Asking nicely has gotten Sabah nowhere. I stand corrected !!!

Leadership is not about making speeches or being liked. Leadership is defined by results not attributes.

Hence, " grassroot leaders" should refrain from idolizing and promoting their own personality, but prioritize on issues affecting the people.

The destiny of the state must be in capable hands, filled with certainty and conviction. The days of impersonators is a foregone conclusion.

It's imperative for parties to stop being delusional, and understand that the intelligent society today are no nitwits.

Yes, society have no qualms over anyone going Solo or fantasizing a collaboration with others. The upcoming polls is no ordinary event, it is a historic crossroad, crucial for the interest of the people, and the relevance of certain parties and it's leaders.

For those who have led and failed, the next Bus to retirement land is ready for departure. Make sure you don't miss your ride

HAPPY KAAMATAN AND GAWAI.

17/05/2025

From The Desk Of.... Ronnie Klassen

In recent days, Sabahan's were mind boggled by the inconclusive mind's of political leaders - leading towards the 17th State Elections.

The incoherent mindset, especially from PH and BN, in backtracking their initial "DEAL" held in Kuala Lumpur, as a pact in facing the upcoming state elections, only to be "corrected" by PMX , is politically amusing, to say the least.

Was PMX shaken by Hajiji Haji Noor's response that GRS would go SOLO? If political stability was the focal point, then questioning it's modus-operandi on the initial backdoor negotiations held by PH and BN, by conveniently sidelining GRS is appropriate.

Let's examine this creditable word POLITICAL STABILITY, that has so often been used or misused.

1. Political stability as it should be refers to which a government operates consistently and predictably without frequent changes in leadership (unless necessary) and policies.. it should further allow the state to focus on long term development, attract investments and maintain public order. Arm twisting from the Central administration in any form to distabilize an elected government is prohibited, unless the existing government is highly corrupt.

2. Skewed politicians interpretation of political stability is often self-serving and distorted. "They embrace and worship political stability, where power, wealth and control remain unchallenged, dissent is minimize or suppressed, and the system continues to favor them and their allies - regardless of whether the people are truly content or democratic principals are upheld."

In short, stability isn't about justice, equality or the well-being of the people, it's about maintaining the status quo that benefits a politician.

So, we ask these highly "distinguished gentlemen", elected by the people, what does political stability mean to you?

Have a blessed weekend.

13/05/2025

From The Desk Of.... Ronnie Klassen

An oath (as illustrated in the photo) must be a commitment to uphold the law, act in good faith and honor one's word, as prescribed in the Constitution.

The upcoming 17th state elections is now expected to be a Clash of The Titans between 3 coalitions.

The recent events in the political sphere has developed into, what was perceived to be a political arm twisting exercise, has now turned into a failed strategy.

Is Anwar and Zahid in Panic Mode over their wrongly calculated plan over the current issues in Sabah, turning it into a Political Soap Opera?

If Anwar and Zahid are sweating buckets, over their initial "masterpiece plan" as a pact in the election, by leaving GRS out in the cold, then Hajiji Haji Noor's cheeky announcement that GRS might now strut solo, may crumble Anwar and Zahid's plan like a ton of bricks.

Life is sometimes stranger than fiction, but Sabah politics is often stranger than real life or fiction.

Since Hajiji's announcement that GRS may go solo, which both Anwar and Zahid never expected coming, it was now obvious that their grand plan of continued manipulation has completely evaporated.

With the drums at high volume, the clarion call louder than a jet engine, the "Sabah for Sabahans" voice has magnified a desire, that the time has come, to unchaine the shackles that dominated the state and it's people for decades.

Enough of injustice and political rhetorics, time for Anwar and Zahid to treat Sabah as equal partners, and treat GRS and other local parties with respect, instead as political minnows.

Sabah leaders from both sides of the political divide, should rally together with a powerful and unapologetic statement signifying their consistency and echoing the aspiration of the people, rather than "kow- towing" to the dominance of outsiders.

Both Sabah's PH/BN chapter should reaffirm their proclamation of patriotism towards the state and it's people, rather than being dictated and treated as political chess piece from across the South China Sea.

Sabahan's awaits the moment.

Have a nice day ahead.

08/05/2025

From The Desk Of.... Ronnie Klassen

Confucius once said, "A journey to a thousand miles, begins with it's first step." If a picture truly paints a thousand words, then comradeship in the picture below, holds water.

Politics is at times morally ambiguous. It is in your moments of decision that political destiny is shaped. As the saying goes, "He who is not courageous enough to take risk will accomplish nothing."

This is inevitable, as the current political environment and it's undercurrent has unveiled a defining moment for Sabah. This moment calls for courage, unity, comradeship and steadfastness, not political expediency.

The destiny of Sabah must be in capable hands, filled with certainties and conviction. The upcoming polls is no ordinary event, it is a historic crossroad, crucial for the interest of the people, and the relevance of parties and it's leaders.

If the magnanimous thumbs up by the 8 Party Presidents within GRS is positive, perhaps than unity and comradeship is in the making.

How it develops as a unifying factor, will depend very much on how the leadership within GRS maneuver the chess board.

Have a great day ahead.

04/05/2025

From The Desk Of.... Ronnie Klassen

Political comradeship appear to be heading towards a nose dive, with certain partners within the coalition expressing "unhappiness."

Morally, this should not be happening. But what and who is rocking the boat?

Are the expectations too demanding or are there some "hotshots" trying desperately hard to distabilize the coalition, for reasons best known to them?

Records do show, all party leaders within the coalition are " handsomely" well positioned within the government. So what's the issue?

There are words used by certain leaders within the coalition, such as being belittled, sidelined and not taken seriously. If this is true, then it's only logical that the affected parties concerned should mirror themselves first. If however the coalition's highest leaders have deviated from it's original stand, then an overhaul of it's comradeship needs to be address.

Lower rank leaders should also be reminded not to be overzealous in their statements, that could cause severe repercussions, leading towards the election

30/04/2025

From The Desk Of.... Ronnie Klassen

It is in your moments of decision that your destiny is shaped.

Historically, in the past, elections were won with handshakes, hugs and manifesto's. As time moved on, today they can be lost to a viral lie and misinformation.

And if you think that Sabah is somehow shielded from this global phenomenon of fake video's, voice clips or AI-generated news, article - designed to humiliate, provoke or confuse.......THINK AGAIN.

UNITY.... only when it's purpose is desired!!!???

Let's evaluate and examine two(2) distinctive opinions from politicians from opposite sides of the political aisle, if a UNITY government justifies the wishes of the people OR if it merely satisfies the wishes of politicians?

In the words of Salleh Said Keruak (BN), "If we truly want to follow the Sarawak model, than all National parties including BN and PH must be rejected. But Sabah is different. Here, stability is built through cooperation between BN, PH and Local parties."

In response by Armizan Ali (GRS), "Sabah should not be FORCED to replicate the Federal government's UNITY model in the upcoming state elections."

"The Memorandum Of Understanding(MOU), signed by 5 political coalitions and parties in December 2022, was only for cooperation to form a federal government."

"There is nothing in the MOU that says the formula must be followed for state governments." NONE.

There again, the current state government makes up of GRS, PH and BN friendly ADUN'S....who have so far performed credibly well, discounting of course the "silent" disagreements within and the "scandals" hovering in the state.

Hence UNITY.....if observed closely, is only achievable by visionary leadership and not by morally ambiguous politicians.

The hardest thing is making the decision to act, the rest is just tenacity.

Have a nice day ahead.

25/04/2025

From The Desk Of.... Ronnie Klassen

UNITY, VICTORY and POLITICAL POWER, are words designed with the absolute intent to garner authority, while the "politically less fortunate" hibernate in retribution.

The political hemisphere in Sabah holds no bounds, as manifested both in social media and the reality on the ground.

Let us examine and differentiate how UNITY, VICTORY and POLITICAL POWER, plays out in the upcoming state elections, by it's strengths and weaknesses.

1. UNITY
Strength:-
a. Encourages cooperation and
stability.
b. Creates a strong foundation for
social or political movements.
c. Enhances resilience in the face
of external threats.
WEAKNESSES:-
a. Suppress diversity of thought if
unity is forced.
b. Risk of groupthink or silencing
dissenting voices.

2. VICTORY.
Strengths:-
a. Validates strategies, leadership
and collective efforts.
b. Solidify legitimacy and morale.
WEAKNESSES:-
a. Temporary if not followed by
sustainable governance.
c. Can lead to arrogance or
overreach.

3. POLITICAL POWER.
Strength:-
a. Essential for implementing
policies and change.
b. Bring about social justice,
reforms or stability.
Weaknesses:-
a. Easily corrupted if unchecked
b. Power struggles can
undermine democratic
institution.

The above is evaluated by it's strength and weaknesses, can GRS, PH and BN justify to the voters that it's cooperation will bring political stability and at the same time fulfill the wishes of the people?

UNITY, VICTORY and POLITICAL POWER, if observed closely, is only achievable by visionary leadership and not by morally ambiguous politicians.

Politics is at times morally ambiguous. Winning an election must be identified by winnable areas. Focus is the key, if the intent is chasing everything, you'll end up with nothing.

The right strategy matters more than sheer enthusiasm. Choose your battlefield. Focus on your strategy. That's how victory is won.

Have a nice day ahead.

24/04/2025

From The Desk Of.... Ronnie Klassen

As a political analysis/strategies, it's become so apparent that the blaming game by politicians is to remain relevant, yet issues affecting the people continue.

Politicians have ceded their moral high ground. You don't score political points and expect an applause from the people without a solution.

The political landscape today is all about power, while circumventing their deficiency, incompetency and camouflaging their failed leadership.

It's been said that politicians today are like actors - to amuse the audience, and expects to be applauded. This political narrative has lost it's flavour among the masses. While there's no denying that the present government has outdone the previous government, the question remains, is that enough?

A government is voted in to serve and not to be served. The people's problem is the government's problem.

What propels such politicians in their pursuit in masterminding the blame game? Well for one, it's a motivating factor to outdo their political foe, and shine shamelessly.

But does this make a ruling administration garlanded by "MANTAP", when the issues relating to the people persist?

Let us not be confused and hoodwinked, 80% of the issues affecting the people has been hovering since, "God knows when." Where lies responsibility and accountability?

The process of competency should stand as a Hallmark, where no government in the past were capable in executing solutions, yet solved by the present government. Hence, the government walks with it's head high.

If politicians from both sides of the divide continue to mastermind their political blame game, and expects sympathy from the people, think again.

As political leaders, some people may be impressed with how well you speak, but the right people will be impressed with how well you listen.

Let us also examine the civil servants, who have been entrusted to execute policies for the benefit of the people. Many still posses the "tidak apa attitude," causing severe hardship to the people.

Have a nice day.

Airtime With Ronnie Klassen