Upko keen to contest mixed seats in next Sabah polls

KOTA KINABALU: Upko is ready to venture out of its comfort zone and contest mixed seats in the coming Sabah election, if given the chance.

Party president Datuk Ewon Benedick said while Upko wants to retain its traditional KadazanDusun Murut (KDM) seats, it is also looking at other potential areas.

“We have been building our strengths in urban areas like Penampang. I believe Upko would be given space to negotiate and contest in these mixed areas,” the Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Minister told reporters after a ministry breaking of fast programme here on Thursday (April 4).

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Ewon, who is also Penampang MP, said the party wants to win more state seats as he is currently its sole assemblyman (for Kadamaian).

“But … we have yet to determine seat allocations. There are other urgent aspects to consider such as the party’s readiness, potential partners and most importantly, the people’s support.

“I want to get views and feedback to help identify potential seats. For sure, Upko wants more seats,” he said.

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Benedick also said Upko will employ a new strategy, ditching the usual roadshows favoured by political parties.

“I have reminded the divisions that instead of doing jelajah (roadshows), we should work with government bodies and promote the importance of education, entrepreneurship and cooperatives. That is more beneficial to the people.

“We want to kill two or more birds with one stone.

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“Gone are the days when you just go down to the ground and talk politics. If we just go to a kampung and talk politics, it does not do the people much good.

“Instead, if we reach out and educate them on the importance of entrepreneurship, cooperatives and education, the rakyat would be happy,” he added.