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KADAMAIAN incumbent and United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (Upko) president Datuk Ewon Benedick has declared that his manifesto for the upcoming election is not a new document, but the ongoing Kadamaian Development Master Plan 2020–2035, a comprehensive framework he initiated following his election in 2018.
Speaking at a community event in Kadamaian on Sunday, Ewon emphasised that the master plan encompasses the needs of all 74 villages in the constituency and remains central to his vision for the area’s future.
“All candidates in Kadamaian have their own manifestos. I am the only one without a new manifesto because my manifesto is the Kadamaian Development Master Plan, which has been, is currently being, and will continue to be implemented,” he stated.
“Part of the plan has been completed, some projects are ongoing, and several more will be carried out. I intend to continue what I began in 2018.”
The Upko president also drew a distinction between candidates, highlighting the role of a representative as either a “pilot” or a “navigator” within the Sabah state government. “
As a party president, we must be the ones guiding the direction of Sabah’s overall development,” he added.
Ewon outlined the progress of major infrastructure projects under the master plan, citing the construction of the Kadamaian River Concrete Bridge in Kampung Kaung Ulu, valued at RM13.7 million, which began in August 2024 and is expected to be completed by January 2026.
He also mentioned the upgrading of key roads, including the 12.4km Tengkurus–Lahanas Road (RM61.4 million), the 16.8km Sayap–Mansulit Road (RM129 million), the Podos–Taginambur Road (RM31 million), and the Panataran Bridge in Kampung Melangkap, which involved a RM9 million investment.
In his tenure as Minister of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives, Ewon introduced the Domestic Look East Policy, promoting the upgrading and construction of traditional tamu sites and stalls in Sabah. In Kadamaian, 22 Tamu Desa premises were built or renovated to stimulate local economic activity.
At a smaller scale, Ewon highlighted numerous community-focused initiatives carried out across all 74 villages.
These included maintenance of community halls, culvert and gabion upgrades, drainage construction, upkeep of village and agricultural roads, installation of gravity-fed water systems, and repairs to village stalls.
Social and educational assistance was channelled through the Sentuhan Kasih programme, providing support for childbirth, bereavement, chronic illnesses, and contributions to kindergartens, primary, and secondary schools.
Religious institutions, including churches and suraus, also received assistance, alongside clubs, associations, and other community bodies benefiting from funding for activities such as gotong-royong, festive celebrations, and sports events.
Ewon concluded by reaffirming his commitment to continuity and long-term development in Kadamaian.
“The Kadamaian Development Master Plan 2020–2035 represents a clear direction, has already begun, and will continue. I will ensure this continuity for the well-being of the Kadamaian community,” he said. - November 24, 2025
