By Mohd Khairy Abdullah
KOTA KINABALU, June 19 – The United Pasokmomogun Kadazan Dusun Murut Organisation (UPKO) has officially been accepted as a full component member of the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) — a decisive move that reaffirms the founding principles of Malaysia and positions local parties as the primary force shaping the state’s future.
This formal membership approval was announced by UPKO President Datuk Ewon Benedick, following the party’s official application submitted on May 29, 2026. He expressed his deepest appreciation to GRS Chairman and Chief Minister of Sabah, Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Haji Noor, along with the entire GRS Supreme Council, for this bold and historic decision.
“As President of UPKO, I stand with full confidence and pride to bring our party home to where it truly belongs — within the fold of Sabah’s own local political parties. This is far more than just joining a coalition; it is a restoration of our state’s political rights and identity,” Ewon stated firmly in his official remarks.
He emphasized that this step is fully aligned with the spirit and provisions of the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), the foundational document that clearly established Sabah, Sarawak, and Peninsular Malaysia as distinct entities, each with its own regional political framework, before agreeing to form the federation.
“No external party can ever understand the heart, aspirations, rights, and needs of Sabah better than our very own local parties. Only we truly grasp and stand firmly by the terms agreed upon in MA63, and only we can develop this state on our own terms,” he declared with unwavering resolve.
Ewon asserted unequivocally that GRS is the only political coalition that is authentic, indigenous, and wholly owned by the people of Sabah. “GRS is the absolute home and the sole legitimate platform for any political party born, bred, and fighting exclusively for Sabah. No other coalition can match or replace this standing,” he added.
He gave a firm assurance that UPKO will contribute its full strength, expertise, and resources to further strengthen GRS — ensuring the coalition remains solid, credible, and fully capable of leading, governing, and advancing Sabah successfully under the leadership of Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Haji Noor.
With strong conviction, he called upon all Sabahans, regardless of background, to unite, move as one, and stand firm under the GRS banner — our very own coalition — to realize the vision of Sabah First, Sabah Progress, Sabah Prosper, and Sabah United.
“This is a milestone of unity that cannot be broken. Once again, I thank the Chief Minister and all GRS leaders for the trust placed in us. We are ready to fight and move forward together,” he concluded.
This membership marks a new peak in strength for Sabah’s local political bloc, now fully united to defend the state’s autonomy rights and drive development strictly in line with the original agreement that formed our nation.
