SANDAKAN: The United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (Upko) has expanded its community engagement efforts with the launch of the Upko Chinese Task Force Sandakan, a new platform aimed at strengthening ties with the Chinese community in the district.
The initiative was launched by Upko president, who is also Deputy Chief Minister III, Datuk Ewon Benedick, during the party’s Libaran Division Triennial General Meeting (TGM) here on Sunday.
The task force will be led by four coordinators appointed to spearhead outreach efforts, strengthen grassroots engagement and serve as a bridge between Upko and the local Chinese community.
Ewon said the establishment of the Chinese Task Force reflects Upko’s commitment to being an inclusive political party that represents Sabah’s diverse communities.
He stressed that active participation from all ethnic groups is essential to ensuring that the voices of the people are effectively represented, in line with Upko’s vision of promoting unity, cooperation and inclusive development.
The launch is also seen as a strategic move by the party to strengthen its presence in Sandakan, particularly among the Chinese community, which continues to play a significant role in the district’s economic and social development.
The event also recorded positive growth for the party, with 10 newly established pro-tem branches in Libaran submitting membership forms, bringing in more than 400 new members into Upko.
Meanwhile, Dr Peter JR Naintin retained his position as Upko Libaran Division chief for the 2026–2029 term after receiving the mandate of more than 200 delegates and observers.
Upko currently has 26 divisions nationwide, including one in Perak, and is scheduled to hold its 2026 Congress this August.
