Umno President Ahmad Zahid Hamidi stated that while Barisan Nasional (BN) is open to a grand coalition for the Sabah election, they insist on reclaiming state seats lost due to defections. He highlighted that Umno aims to regain seats won previously but later abandoned by elected representatives. This stance follows Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's suggestion of a PH, BN, and GRS collaboration for Sabah's political stability. Zahid emphasized the need to avoid seat overlaps and address potential disagreements among the coalitions. He also referenced past tensions between GRS and BN, particularly concerning defections and leadership challenges, and noted that GRS has indicated it might run independently if PH and BN form a formal alliance.