United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (Upko) president Datuk Ewon Benedick urged party members to remain steadfast in their principles and contributions, despite perceptions of the party as "small" within the national political landscape.
Speaking at Upko’s 31st anniversary celebration at SICC on Friday, Ewon highlighted the party's legacy, ongoing role in national leadership, and vision ahead of the upcoming Sabah state election.
“If they say were a small party, just smile and continue doing good work. Every part of the body, big or small, has a purpose,” he said, rallying members to take pride in their identity and impact.
window.googletag = window.googletag || {cmd: []};googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.defineSlot('/22826383987/dailyexpress_inline', [1, 1], 'gpt-passback').addService(googletag.pubads());googletag.enableServices();googletag.display('gpt-passback');});Fresh from a special diplomatic mission to the Vatican to represent Malaysia at Pope Francis’ funeral, Ewon reflected on leadership and legacy.
“Reading the legacy of Pope Francis made me reflect, what do we want to leave behind for the next generation through our leadership in Upko?” he asked.
He paid tribute to former Upko presidents Tan Sri Bernard Dompok and Datuk Seri Madius Tangau for their lasting contributions, from empowering the Momogun community to pushing a multiethnic and progressive direction for the party.
Ewon, who also serves as Minister of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives, stressed Upko's critical role in securing improved financial recognition for Sabah from the federal government.
He detailed how Upko and other PH Sabah lawmakers initiated a legal challenge (Originating Summons) over the federal government’s 2022 special grant allocation, a move that led to several key outcomes, including a raise in annual special grants to RM600 million.
“Because of Upko’s action, we achieved important decisions, including LHDN law amendments and increased funding. We were part of this,” he said.
Ewon reiterated that the party will continue to champion Sabah’s rights under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) and work with like-minded parties at both state and federal levels.
“This state election is not a contest of who shouts loudest or throws the most accusations. It should be a measure of Sabahs unity,” he said.
Looking ahead, Ewon said Upko remains ready to contest in the upcoming state polls and emphasized the need for strategic, principle-driven collaboration.
“Upko must be a party that inspires, that motivates, and that stands firm on matters of constitutional and regional importance.
“Let us be proud that we have a party to call our home, one that respects, cooperates, and contributes to a better neighbourhood, a better Sabah, and a better Malaysia,” he said.
The event was also attended by Upko leaders, Pakatan Harapan coalition partners, and members from across Sabah.
