TENOM, Oct 7 — United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (Upko) is ready to contest the Melalap state seat in the 17th State Election (PRN17), said its president Datuk Ewon Benedick.
He urged party members and supporters of the unity government to back the Upko candidate to ensure victory for the coalition. The seat was held by Parti KDM President Datuk Peter Anthony who was jailed recently for corruption.
“This state election is crucial for Sabah. Upko, together with Pakatan Harapan (PH), is part of the Federal Government. So voters should choose a representative from the ruling party,” he said when officiating the Upko Tenom 2025 Convention at Dewan Seri Panglima Antanom, Sunday.
Ewon, who is also Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives (Kuskop) Minister, said a government representative would be better positioned to manage development in the area.
He said Melalap should be represented by a local leader who understands the people’s needs, adding that Upko wants to restore Melalap’s leadership identity as before.
Ewon expressed confidence that Upko has a strong chance in Melalap, given its long history in the area and record of producing capable leaders.
Dismissing claims that Sabah federal leaders are agents of Malaya, he said they are agents of Sabah advancing the state’s interests through initiatives like Tamu Desa, Skim Pembiayaan Usahawan Tamu (Sput) and Bumiputera Entrepreneur Grant for Sabah and Sarawak.
Ewon also challenged other local parties to state what they have achieved for Sabah while in the Federal Government, affirming that Upko, as a local party, will continue defending the rights and welfare of Sabahans, including those in Melalap and Kadamaian.
“I have shown Upko candidates what leadership means. The people want fresh, capable, and dedicated leaders who embody Sabah’s identity. Continue to serve and work for the people of Melalap,” he said.
Also present were Upko Tenom Chief Junik Bajit and other party leaders. — Daily Express
