Kota kinabalu: The statement by United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (UPKO) President Datuk Ewon Benedick, suggesting that Sabah voters would lose their advantage if they chose candidates from national parties, has been called irresponsible by DAP Secretary-General Anthony Loke. Loke, who is also the Minister of Transport, expressed concern that such remarks could strain the relationship between local and national parties.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Loke emphasized that the statement was inappropriate as all candidates contesting in the 17th Sabah State Election (PRN) are locals, regardless of their party affiliations. He remarked, “I feel that is a rather irresponsible statement and attempts to divide the leaders of local parties and national parties. All the leaders and candidates contesting in Sabah are local leaders,” during a press briefing at the Community Appreciation Ceremony.

Present alongside Loke were DAP candidates for the Sabah State Election, running under the Pakatan Harapan (PH) ticket: Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe for the Likas State Assembly seat, Chan Loong Wei for Luyang, Datuk Chan Foong Hin for Tanjung Aru, and Datuk Jannie Lasimbang for Kapayan.

Loke further noted that Ewon’s comments were contradictory to his current role, as Ewon continues to draw a salary as a Federal Minister despite having announced his resignation. Loke highlighted that PH allowed Ewon to retain his position as a Federal Minister, even though UPKO holds only two parliamentary seats. Loke stated, “So, as a Federal Minister, one must have the characteristic of uniting the people, not dividing them.”

He urged the people of Sabah to reject narratives that foster hostility between Sabah and the Peninsula. Instead, he encouraged focusing on forming a stable state government capable of fostering good relations with the Federal government. The Election Commission has scheduled the polling day for the 17th Sabah State Election on November 29, with early voting set for November 25.