SANDAKAN: Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP) President Datuk Seri Yong Teck Lee said Chinese in Sabah have never complained about not being in the State Cabinet because the Chinese community knows what their choice was (in the Sabah election in September 2020 when they mostly voted for Warisan or DAP).
Hence, he said it is a relief that the GRS-BN government is supportive of the Chinese community, the schools and religious organisations and being business friendly.
“This situation (of a friendly government irrespective of race and religion composition) is healthy for Sabah’s national unity and future prosperity,” he said, referring to criticism by former Chief Minister Datuk Seri Shafie Apdal over the exclusion of Chinese leaders in the State Cabinet.
Yong, a former Chief Minister, is also confident that more GRS-BN candidates would win in the Sabah parliamentary election this Saturday.
He said ongoing internal bickering among members of Parti Warisan and Pakatan Harapan (PH-DAP) has been an advantage to Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS-BN) for the Sandakan seat.
“The internal bickering between Warisan and Pakatan Harapan particularly DAP has over shadowed our lone candidate Datuk Lau Chi Keong @Thonas Lau,” Yong said.
Lau is involved in a six-way fight. Yong, a Nominated Assemblyman, is in town to campaign for GRS-BN candidates.
Yong also noted that Sandakan is no longer a strong opposition-based territory.
“Most of the voters have switched sides,” he said adding Sandakan is also no longer a Chinese dominated constituency.
Many Chinese youngers have left the place in search for greener pastures, including overseas.
Given the scenario, Yong said it is vital to have an experienced/well-calibre elected representative to address the migration of locals.
“Sandakan really need a leader who has a vision and capability to develop further the place, create job opportunities and upgrade the standard of living of the people,” he stressed.
“The local populace and voters realised the importance of having an experienced, effective and honest public servant apart from the many advantages if the elected one is in good vibes with the state and federal leaderships.”
Lau was Sandakan Municipal Council (SMC) deputy president, Tanjong Papat Kapitan Cina, heads of several non-governmental organisations, including religious groups.
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