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FOR many residents in Sabah’s remote interior, election season is more than political fervour; it has become a vital opportunity to supplement family incomes, which often barely meet daily needs.
During the 17th Sabah General Election campaign, villages such as Kampung Monggorimot in the Sook district, have transformed into bustling mini-markets, where locals bring fresh forest produce, fruits, and home-grown vegetables to sell whenever political candidates’ entourages make their rounds.
“This is the time we get extra income. Whenever a candidate’s entourage comes, everything sells quickly. Today I brought white chili, which we call doduong in our village.
“People here like to cook it with salted fish, torch ginger, or losun vegetables. It sells out fast,” said Gitom Undal, 66, a villager whose small stall is rapidly cleared of produce whenever campaign teams arrive.
Gitom also highlighted the items sold by his neighbours, including rattan shoots, known locally as imbalua by the Murut community, rambutan, and various wild vegetables hand-picked from nearby forests.
“We all sell together. Whoever has produce, brings it out to set up a stall. The important thing is to help earn a little extra income, especially during the campaign season,” he added.
For the villagers, campaign visits are not only an opportunity to hear political speeches, such as those by Pakatan Harapan (PH) Tulid Assembly candidate Datin Rufinah Pengeran, but also a practical chance to sell their produce to eager buyers.
The lively atmosphere continues at the Tamu Pekan Sook market, where the activities of multiple political parties intersect, distributing posters and leaflets while inadvertently boosting local commerce.
Barisan Nasional (BN) DUN Sook candidate Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup was at the market from as early as 7.30 am, engaging with voters and contributing to the busy trade.
The presence of campaign teams has added to the usual weekly market activity, increasing local sales as party representatives purchase agricultural products. Mary Lee, 58, a long-time vendor, remarked on the stark contrast to regular market days.
“Usually it’s not this crowded, but with the overlapping activities of multiple parties, today’s market is so lively. We are grateful because they are not just here to campaign, but also to buy our agricultural produce,” she said.
For residents of Sabah’s interior, PRN17 has become a rare moment when politics and local commerce intersect, providing both a platform for civic engagement and a vital financial lifeline.
The fusion of election campaigning and market activity exemplifies how political events can spur economic opportunity in remote communities, giving new meaning to the phrase “every vote counts.” - November 23, 2025