Jeffrey urged to lead Sabah's political reawakening
KOTA KINABALU (July 4): As Sabah gears up for the 17th State Election, a passionate open letter from a lifelong member of Parti Solidariti Tanah Airku (STAR) has captured the sentiments of many Sabahans hoping for true local leadership.
Addressed to STAR President Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Jeffrey Kitingan, the letter — penned by Robert Richard Foo — calls on the veteran leader to rise not just as a political contender, but as the 'fearless general' who will lead Sabah into a new era of autonomy and dignity.
'The next government will determine the trajectory of our state for the next decade — whether we rise with dignity or remain sidelined under external political dominance,' Foo wrote. 'The responsibility now falls squarely on you — and on STAR — to rise and lead.'
The letter highlights growing dissatisfaction among Sabahans over decades of what Foo describes as 'external control' by Peninsular-based parties that have failed to address the state's unique needs. It emphasizes frustrations over lagging infrastructure, unfulfilled promises under the Malaysia Agreement 1963, and the perception that Sabah's wealth continues to benefit outsiders more than locals.
'Sabahans are weary. We are tired of being treated as a vote bank,' the letter states. 'The people no longer want cosmetic change. They demand structural reform.'
Foo's message urges STAR to position itself not as a junior coalition partner, but as the leading force in a movement for true self-determination.
He calls on Jeffrey to field dynamic, assertive candidates and to reconnect with the youth — the future voters who are increasingly disillusioned with the political process.
'This election is not just about winning seats,' the letter reads. 'It is about defining Sabah's future. It is about saying enough to external control. It is about claiming our rightful place in Malaysia — not as dependents, but as equals.'
As the political climate in Sabah heats up ahead of the state election, Foo's open letter echoes a growing grassroots sentiment: that the time for hesitation is over, and STAR must now transform from symbol to solution.
In his closing plea, Foo writes, 'YB DSP President, will you rise above politics and answer the call of history? Lead us to that victory. Because this time, failure is not an option.'
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