TENOM –The United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (UPKO) continues to strengthen its presence in Sabah’s interior with the opening of three new party branches in the N.42 Melalap state constituency, marking a significant rise in local support and fresh grassroots momentum.
In a recent grassroots tour, UPKO Tenom successfully launched three new branches in key voting districts:
- Kg Mangkalias (PDM Paguokon),
- Kg Pansailon (PDM Lagud), and
- Batu 90, which also saw a notable number of new members registering with the party.
According to UPKO Tenom Division Chief, Junik Bajit, this development clearly demonstrates the party’s growing acceptance among local communities, especially among young voters and fence-sitters who are increasingly drawn to UPKO’s progressive leadership.
“The people of Melalap are beginning to resonate with UPKO’s struggle and vision. These new branches are not just organisational expansions, they are a sign that the wave of change has begun to take root in this area,” he said in a press statement.
Junik added that UPKO’s rising popularity is strongly tied to the leadership of its President, Datuk Ewon Benedick, who also serves as Malaysia’s Minister of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives. Ewon is widely seen as a bold and reform-oriented leader, championing Sabah’s rights at the national level.
“Datuk Ewon’s leadership plays a pivotal role in drawing public support. He brings not only vision but delivery — especially in inclusive development, regardless of race, religion or political affiliation,” Junik said.
Over the past few years, UPKO Tenom has actively reached out to communities across Melalap through numerous grassroots programs, focusing on educational assistance, economic empowerment, entrepreneurship support and welfare aid for the elderly and persons with disabilities (PWDs).
Junik noted that UPKO’s assistance has consistently been provided without bias, emphasising needs-based delivery over political loyalty.
“UPKO works quietly on the ground, but the impact is real. Many beneficiaries don’t even realise the aid comes through our channels — because we help without discrimination,” he added.
As part of its preparation for the upcoming 17th Sabah State Election (PRN-17), UPKO Tenom will continue its constituency-wide tour of Polling District Centres (PDMs), focusing on branch strengthening, new member registration, public engagement sessions, policy outreach and grassroots mobilisation.
“We will continue to be on the ground until the final day before the dissolution of the State Assembly. UPKO is not just present during elections — we are here for the people all year round,” Junik stressed.
With growing grassroots support and the successful establishment of new branches, UPKO is poised to emerge as a formidable contender in N.42 Melalap. The increasing public reception indicates that political change in Sabah’s interior is gaining momentum.
In this context, UPKO is not only seen as a relevant local party, but also as a symbol of a better future for Sabahans — one rooted in justice, progress, and unity.
