Latest news with #UnitedProgressiveKinabaluOrganisation
Daily Express
19-05-2025
- Politics
- Daily Express
13 MA63 issues have been resolved: Ewon
Published on: Monday, May 19, 2025 Published on: Mon, May 19, 2025 By: R Gonzales Text Size: Ewon examining a handcrafted knife showcased at the event venue. KOTA BELUD: United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (Upko) President Datuk Ewon Benedick said the party's struggle and aspirations of the people must be translated into government policies and initiatives that benefit the people. Officiating the Upko Kaamatan Festival at Dewan Terbuka Kadamaian Square, here, Saturday, he said the real struggle is not about slogans and rhetoric but implementation of high-impact programmes that benefit the people. Advertisement 'Upko will continue to voice opinions and contribute to the building of the Malaysian Federation and a better future for Sabah. 'We begin this obligation through ministry leadership by introducing the 'Look East Within the Nation' policy. 'This policy was created to address the unique needs and challenges in Sabah and Sarawak, which differ from those in peninsula and to find the best solutions so that the people of Borneo do not feel marginalised,' said the Minister of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives. Ewon said he has also ensured agencies under his Ministry provide comprehensive services and implement various initiatives tailored to the needs of Sabah and Sarawak. Advertisement These include the Skim Usahawan Tamu, Premis Tamu Desa and the Skim Pembiayaan Industri Kraf. He said his struggle began with the mandate given by the people of Kadamaian and Penampang, as well as the trust placed in him by the Prime Minister to lead the Ministry. 'We start with responsibility, fighting, discussing, negotiating and taking action based on consistent principles of struggle. 'Certainly, there is still much to fight for in the context of entrepreneurial and cooperative development in Sabah and Sarawak. 'However, with a comprehensive approach and cooperation between the federal and state governments, we can build a better Malaysia and Sabah,' he said. 'Among our struggles is fulfilling the purpose of Malaysia's establishment 62 years ago, when Sabah, Sarawak, Singapore and Malaya agreed to sign the Malaysia Agreement, leading to the formation of a new nation called Malaysia. 'Of the many issues we have fought for, 13 matters related to the implementation of the Malaysia Agreement have been fully resolved and finalised. This is a fact,' he said. He added that of the 13 resolved matters, nine were settled by the current government, involving both the Sabah state government and the federal government under the leadership of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor. 'As Upko President, I am proud that the party is part of the Federal Cabinet and has helped finalise nine issues that have been fought for over 62 years. 'Certainly, this is an achievement and success that we should celebrate together a harvest of struggle that we honour during the Kaamatan Festival,' he said. He also noted that there are still other demands to be fought for. 'That is why Upko calls for unity and cooperation among all Malaysians, especially the people of Sabah and its leaders, to remain united.' He added that Upko's struggle in the government is not mere rhetoric but is clearly translated through policies, programs and the government's annual budget. 'Upko wants to collaborate with all parties that can bring progress and a better future for Malaysians, wherever they are. 'This includes our efforts to bring entrepreneurs and cooperatives to the international market so that our local products are not only sold domestically but also gain recognition in the global market,' he said. Commenting on the spirit of unity, Ewon said Upko has no objections to any slogan that fosters unity. What matters, he said, is that Upko wants to see real unity, a struggle that can be translated into government programs and policies. At the event, he said the Kaamatan festival celebration is not only a symbol of gratitude for agricultural harvests but also a platform to celebrate achievements in various fields, including education, careers, public service, corporate sectors, entrepreneurial movements and cooperatives. 'As we uphold cultural heritage, we should embrace the Kaamatan Festival as a symbol of success and the fruits of continuous struggle.' * Follow us on Instagram and join our Telegram and/or WhatsApp channel(s) for the latest news you don't want to miss. * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
Borneo Post
17-05-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Ewon: UPKO's struggle must translate into policies that benefit people
Ewon examining a handcrafted knife showcased at the event venue. KOTA BELUD May 17): United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (UPKO) president Datuk Ewon Benedick emphasized that the party's political struggle and the people's aspirations must be reflected through government policies and initiatives that deliver real impact to the rakyat. Ewon, who is also the Minister of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives, said that true political commitment goes beyond slogans and rhetoric — it must be seen through the implementation of meaningful programmes that uplift communities. 'UPKO will continue to voice its views and contribute to the development of the Malaysian Federation and a better future for Sabah,' he said. Speaking at the UPKO Kaamatan Festival in Kadamaian today, Ewon highlighted the Look East Within the Country Policy, initiated through his ministry, as a targeted strategy to address the specific needs of Sabah and Sarawak. 'This policy was created to acknowledge the unique challenges faced by Borneo states compared to Peninsular Malaysia. We aim to ensure the people of Sabah and Sarawak do not feel left behind,' he added. He stressed that agencies under his ministry have been directed to deliver inclusive services and introduce initiatives such as the Tamu Entrepreneur Scheme, Village Market Premises and the Craft Industry Financing Scheme, which are tailored to the local context. 'This is the trust and responsibility given to me by the people of Sabah, which I carry on behalf of UPKO in the federal government,' he said. Reflecting on his political journey, Ewon shared that it began with the trust given by the people of Kadamaian and Penampang, and the support of the Prime Minister in appointing him to lead his ministry. 'We started with responsibility. We fight, negotiate, and act with consistent principles,' he said, adding that more needs to be done to boost entrepreneurship and cooperative development in Sabah and Sarawak. With strong collaboration between the federal and state governments, he believes a better Malaysia and Sabah can be built. He underscored that UPKO's role in the government is not just symbolic but evident in national policies, programmes, and budget allocations. The party, he added, is ready to work with any political group committed to national progress and the well-being of the people. 'Our goal is also to bring local entrepreneurs and cooperatives to the global stage, so their products are recognized not just in Malaysia but worldwide,' he said. On national unity, Ewon remarked, 'Whatever slogan is used to promote unity, UPKO has no objections. What matters most is genuine unity, one that is embedded in policies and programmes.' He also highlighted the significance of the Kaamatan Festival — not just as a celebration of harvest — but as a platform to honor achievements across various fields, including education, public service, corporate, entrepreneurship, and cultural preservation. 'The festival is also a symbol of our long-standing political struggle, especially in achieving the objectives behind the formation of Malaysia 62 years ago,' he said. Ewon noted that of the many matters UPKO has championed, 13 issues under the Malaysia Agreement have been resolved and finalised — with nine of them achieved under the current Sabah State Government and the Federal Government led by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Chief Minister Datuk Hajiji Noor. 'As UPKO president, I am proud that our party is part of the federal cabinet and contributed to these important milestones, which are the harvest of our decades-long struggle,' he said. Nonetheless, he acknowledged that there are still unresolved issues that require continuous pursuit. 'Therefore, UPKO calls for unity and cooperation among all Malaysians, especially the people and leaders of Sabah, so that we remain united in our mission,' he said.
New Straits Times
16-05-2025
- Politics
- New Straits Times
Sabah's rights fight belongs to all, not just local parties
LAHAD DATU: The struggle for Sabah's rights is not exclusive to any local party but a shared responsibility of all Sabahans who want to see the state's future safeguarded, said former Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Salleh Said Keruak. "There is often the assumption that only local parties are entitled to speak on Sabah's rights. "In truth, this struggle belongs to all Sabahans. It is not the exclusive right of any single party," said Salleh, who is also the Sabah Umno treasurer. He added that whether a party is local or national, both are merely platforms. "What matters is the sincerity and capability of leaders to elevate Sabah's voice." Salleh said parties such as the United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation and Parti Bersatu Rakyat Sabah, although part of national coalitions, are still local parties that ensure Sabah's voice is better heard at the federal level. He added that issues such as the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), state revenue and autonomy are no longer peripheral discussions. "These matters have been elevated to the federal level, embedded in the Federal Constitution, discussed in the Cabinet and made part of the Unity Government's joint agenda." "What the people of Sabah want today is not about who is more 'Sabahan' or more 'local'. "What truly matters is who is sincere, stable and capable of fulfilling their promises," he said.
Daily Express
15-05-2025
- Politics
- Daily Express
‘Sabah for Sabahans' okay: Upko
Published on: Friday, May 16, 2025 Published on: Fri, May 16, 2025 By: Diana Liu Text Size: Ewon during the press conference after the event. Kota Kinabalu: There is no problem with 'Sabah for Sabahans', 'Sabah First', 'Sabah Rumah Kita' or any other slogan being used by the people of Sabah as part of their aspirations, said United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (Upko) President Datuk Ewon Benedick. Disagreeing with Barisan Nasional Chairman-cum Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Zahidi who labelled it as 'divisive', he said: Advertisement 'For me, it is a form of patriotic spirit. As long as it aims to foster the spirit of unity among Sabahans and strengthens broader national cohesion, any slogans or similar themes are acceptable.' Ewon, who is also the Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Minister, said that there is also no restriction on Sabah-based parties adopting their own political approach, including forming alliances and cooperation with other parties through national coalitions. The 'Sabah for Sabahans' slogan has become a familiar theme among parties wanting the Sabah Government to be led by Sabah-based parties or Sabah-based coalitions, instead of by Sabahans heading peninsula-based parties or coalitions at state-level. Upko and Parti Bersatu Rakyat Sabah (PBRS) are the only Sabah-based parties that are part of the peninsula-based BN led by Umno. 'As President of a party from Sabah, I truly understand the sentiments and aspirations of the people here. That is why I also emphasise that local aspirations must be the basis of negotiations in larger political coalitions in Sabah,' he said. According to him, the people want solutions to their problems, not loud voices championing the cause. He also does not see any issue regarding the political mould choices of Sabah parties, which include forming cooperation with other parties at the national level or with 'foreign' parties that uphold democratic practices. 'I am more inclined to look at the effectiveness of cooperation between parties in finding solutions to the people's problems. 'Our spirit and the slogans we chant must be able to contribute to solving the basic problems of our people, such as roads, internet coverage, and so on. 'No matter how strong the slogan, if the people's basic problems still cannot be solved after decades, then it remains a slogan. 'That is why for the area I represent, I want to build additional strength by cooperating with other parties, including the cooperative movement, to solve the people's problems, because I know the allocation for elected representatives is limited,' he said. * Follow us on Instagram and join our Telegram and/or WhatsApp channel(s) for the latest news you don't want to miss. * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
Borneo Post
15-05-2025
- Politics
- Borneo Post
UPKO backs patriotic slogans to foster unity, says Ewon
KOTA KINABALU (May 15): Any political party or Sabahan citizen is free to use any slogan or theme they believe can foster a sense of patriotism among Malaysians, said United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (UPKO) president Datuk Ewon Benedick. 'I have no objection … call it 'Sabah for Sabahans', 'Sabah First', 'Sabah Our Home', or anything else – as long as the intent is noble and the goal is to foster patriotism and unity among the people of Sabah,' said Ewon, who is also Kadamaian Assemblyman and Penampang Member of Parliament. 'As long as it promotes harmony, cooperation and solidarity within our federation, I consider it a good thing,' he added. Speaking to reporters after witnessing the takeover of Klinik Sahabat signing ceremony between Koperasi Pekerja-Pekerja Kerajaan Sabah Berhad and Sahabat Ikhtiar Hospitality Sdn Bhd at Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) today, Ewon stated that from the UPKO's standpoint, the party has no issue with Sabahans or Sabah leaders adopting such themes. Ewon also stated that both UPKO and Parti Bersatu Rakyat Sabah (PBRS) president Datuk Arthur Kurup are part of national coalition, and emphasised that this does not prevent them from representing the voice of Sabah. 'In fact, this can serve as a bridge. I represent a Sabahan party that is part of this national coalition,' he said. For example, in terms of achievements, it was under the current government that nine of the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) provisions were realised, said Ewon. 'That shows we complement one another. So, I see no obstacle for Sabah parties to move according to their own aspirations — just as we aspire to see greater unity. I fully understand the sentiment in Sabah — this state sentiment — I understand it deeply. As the president of a Sabah-based party, I fully grasp it,' he said. 'That is why I have made it clear that local aspirations must form the foundation of any negotiation. These negotiations must lead to unity — and that unity must encompass broader cooperation,' he added. Ewon also stressed the importance of exploring larger collaborations. 'We cannot afford to limit ourselves to just our own party in Sabah and avoid exploring larger collaborations. Given today's geopolitical climate and trade wars, we cannot afford to assume that Sabah can fight for everything on its own — I don't think so,' he said. He added that he believed cooperation with all parties would be more effective. 'For me, I see this as a broader form of collaboration, because we are not only focused on developing Sabah, but also on defending its sovereignty,' he reminded. 'Let us not forget — who was successful in defeating the Sulu claim? It was the Madani government. We succeeded in defeating the claim overseas. And who led the special task force? It was Datuk Seri Azalina, whom we appointed to head the task force at the Cabinet level. We succeeded.' 'That is why I say — we cannot afford to believe that only we alone can do it. If cooperation with other parties brings added strength, why not?' he added. Ewon also said that he wants to see the Malaysian Federation remain as it was intended when it was formed 63 years ago. 'Yes, there are shortcomings. That is why we must sit together to fix them and strengthen the Federation with new energy,' he said. He also reminded that there is no use fighting under the same banner for decades if, in the end, there are still areas where roads remain unrepaired, and internet access is still poor. 'All of these, in my view, require cooperation,' he said. 'Even in the constituency I represent, there are many shortcomings. And because I am fully aware of those shortcomings, I want to bring every possible strength to help resolve them. 'And if I can gain strength by building friendships and working with more people, more parties, and more leaders — then why not? He reminded that the people want solutions to their problems — not just loud voices championing their cause. 'Some of us may not always be seen speaking out, but in terms of work and results, there are things worth highlighting,' he said. 'For example, at the Ministry of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives, I've introduced an inward-looking 'Look East' policy tailored specifically to the needs of Sabah and Sarawak,' said Ewon. He said that they have launched initiatives such as the Tamu Desa premises scheme, the Tamu Entrepreneur Scheme, and the Bumiputera Entrepreneur Grant Scheme for Sabah and Sarawak. These were introduced because they meet the actual needs on the ground, he said. 'What matters most is finding effective approaches to address the needs of Sabah and Sarawak. Those needs cannot be met by passion alone — they must be supported by policies, initiatives, and budgets that uphold those policies. It is those very policies that can elevate our spirit. 'At the end of the day, people will ask — our patriotic spirit may be strong, but the roads are still in poor condition. 'I want to invite fellow leaders in Sabah to unite — regardless of which party we belong to. Whether we are only in Sabah, or whether we can form friendships and collaborations with parties across the country — even with partners outside Malaysia,' urged Ewon. 'That, to me, is what matters most. This is why I keep saying that solving the people's problems cannot be done through rhetoric alone. 'For example, I will soon be visiting Kadamaian with cooperatives that are ready to help address the needs of the people through corporate social responsibility programmes. They want to assist villages in need, villages that have submitted requests that I am unable to fulfil with my limited state assembly allocation,' he said. 'However, premier cooperatives — including some from Peninsular Malaysia — have come forward with offers to help. Why should I reject such partnerships from the cooperative movement when they are eager to be part of the solution? So, for me, it is always about solving problems,' he added. As for the implementation of the Malaysia Agreement 1963, we have proven our commitment, said Ewon. 'Under the Madani government, nine of the MA63 demands have been finalised and fully resolved — four of which were already achieved before I joined the Federal Cabinet.'
