KOTA KINABALU: Labuan requires a parliamentary representative who knows that the task comes with a role that hinges on being a federal stamp, deeply rooted in Sabah.
As a Federal Territory since 1984, the island will undoubtedly pit seasoned politicians, front runners from the various parties or alliances, although surprise decisions in the form of new hopefuls can be expected.
A Muslim bumiputera majority seat, many from the island belong to the various communities that trace their origins from Sabah, although there are also those who are originally from other parts of the country.
Its economy anchors on the oil and gas industry, although the duty-free status coupled with the International Offshore Financial Centre, helps keep the island "afloat".
In the upcoming 15th general elections on Nov 19, Gabungan Rakyat Sabah has confirmed Parti Pribumi Malaysia Bersatu Labuan chairman, Datuk Suhaili Abdul Rahman, as their candidate.
He was the Member of Parliament under Barisan Nasional's Umno for two terms, winning the seat in 1999 and 2004, and under GRS, has served as the chairman of state-owned oil and gas company, Asian Supply Base.
Then there is incumbent Datuk Rozman Isli, a much-touted candidate for Sabah-based party, Warisan. He was formerly from Umno, winning the seat for BN, before he switched parties.
There is Datuk Bashir Alias of Umno, touted as a reliable candidate to represent BN.
Another possible candidate is Simsudin Sidek of Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR), bearing the flag of Pakatan Harapan.
Datuk Peter Mak, Parti Bersatu Sabah vice-president said GRS made the right choice with Suhaili since Labuan needs to be steered on a clear direction, back to the era of the golden years as an oil and gas hub.
"He is a leader who can bang tables when necessary. That's his reputation," Mak said, adding that leaders that preceded him under BN were conformists.
"A GRS MP is an advantage for Labuan because Sabah is currently under the coalition. We can move on, progress as a Federal Territory along with the State," he added.