Voice of the Wave

 

I’ve been apolitical for decades, but my frustration with the current government’s unresponsiveness over the past three years has me wanting change.

On August 23, 2025, members of the Black Wave Movement, from Kepayan, visited my home, and their leader briefly spoke with me. I’m intrigued and want to explore if their promises are genuine and how I might support them. Does anyone know more about this group?

The Black Wave Movement, led by Kudat MP Verdon Bahanda, is a coalition of independent candidates challenging major political parties in Sabah, including Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS), Barisan Nasional (BN), Parti Warisan Sabah (Warisan), and Pakatan Harapan (PH). Emerging from public disillusionment with elite-driven politics, it gained traction when Verdon won the Kudat parliamentary seat as an independent in the 2022 General Election (GE15), defeating a GRS candidate.

The movement aims to form a “third power bloc” by contesting at least 10 of the 73 state assembly seats in the upcoming Sabah election (due by December 2025). It seeks to act as a check and balance on the government, advocating for the “People’s Voice” and prioritizing issues like combating corruption, securing Sabah’s rights, and addressing systemic inefficiencies. Verdon emphasizes that any post-election alliances with major parties will depend on aligning with public interests, particularly tackling poverty in areas like Kudat.

The movement positions itself as a voice for the rakyat, aiming to disrupt the control of political elites.

To assess whether the Black Wave Movement truly aims to help the masses or serves as a vehicle for personal gain, consider the following:

The movement taps into Sabah’s history of political instability, frequent party-switching, and perceived neglect by elites, resonating with widespread voter frustration.

Verdon’s emphasis on fighting corruption and advocating for Sabah’s rights addresses longstanding issues, such as the state’s underdevelopment despite its resource wealth.

Verdon’s GE15 victory and the success of three independent candidates in the 2020 Sabah election show voter appetite for alternatives to traditional parties.

 

The movement’s rhetoric about “overhauling the system” and “fighting corruption” lacks specific policy proposals, risking it being more about rallying support than delivering results.

Verdon’s talk of independents as “kingmakers” and potentially joining the cabinet raises questions about personal influence. While he denies seeking high office, the pursuit of power could lead to replicating the elite structures the movement critiques.

In 2020, three independent winners aligned with the ruling GRS, suggesting independents may end up supporting existing power structures rather than dismantling them.

 

Point to Ponder:

Why didn’t Verdon join GRS after his GE15 win? This could indicate a commitment to independence or a strategic move to build his own platform, but it warrants further scrutiny.

The Black Wave Movement’s focus on empowering the rakyat aligns with my desire for change after years of government inaction. However, their lack of clear plans makes me cautious. I’d like to learn more about their candidates, manifesto, and track record to confirm if their promises hold up. Any insights or experiences with this group would be appreciated!