Sabah polls: Telupid needs rep attuned to local priorities, Sabah’s long term interests, says incumbent

KOTA KINABALU (Nov 28): Decisions made in Telupid in the upcoming Sabah state election will have ripple effects across the state, said Labuk incumbent Datuk Tan Yong Gee.

Urging voters to support leaders capable of strengthening Sabah’s political footing, the former four-term assemblyman has been actively campaigning for United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation’s (Upko) Telupid candidate Felix Joseph Saang, saying the constituency needs a representative who understand local priorities and are committed to safeguarding Sabah’s long-term interests.

“Choose candidates who are truly responsible, and choose candidates from local parties that we must continue to champion, so that we can strengthen our hold in Telupid and eventually all of Sabah,” he said during a community engagement session in Telupid recently.

Tan reminded residents that their votes on November 29 will determine how effectively Sabah can assert its voice within the national political landscape.

He also encouraged strong voter turnout, calling on the community to come out in full numbers on polling day.

“Let us all come out and vote on November 29,” he said.

Felix, who has been meeting communities throughout the constituency, said every visit reinforces the importance of listening closely to the needs and aspirations of Sabahans.

“The visits captured meaningful moments with the community.

“Each time I go down to meet the people, I’m reminded how important it is that the needs of Sabahans are heard and respected.

“Issues like development, daily livelihood and our rights under the Malaysian Agreement 1963 (MA63) remain close to the hearts of many,” he said.

He expressed gratitude for the warm welcome he continues to receive, noting that engagement on the ground gives him a clearer understanding of grassroots concerns as campaigning intensifies.

Thursday marked Felix’s final day of campaigning, with his team covering the remaining villages and communities before the midnight cutoff.

Today, campaign workers and local supporters are shifting into election-day preparations, focusing on mobilising volunteers, coordinating polling-station logistics, and ensuring a smooth ground presence for tomorrow’s vote.