Former Sepanggar MP pledges support for Barisan candidate Abdul Rahman Dahlan

KOTA KINABALU: Former Sepanggar MP Datuk Jumat Idris has pledged loyalty to Barisan Nasional, and said that he will assist the coalition in ensuring victory for all three seats within the parliamentary constituency.

He also gave his endorsement to the Barisan candidate for the Sepanggar federal seat, Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Seri Abdul Rahman Dahlan. 

"Given a chance, I believe Abdul Rahman can deliver," he said to roars from the crowd at his residence in Likas here on Sunday (April 29).

Abdul Rahman also made a surprise appearance at the event.

"Together, I am confident that we will retain the seat," he declared.

The former Sepanggar MP said he received a personal call from Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak on Friday, asking him to remain with the party.

"I want to end all speculation surrounding my status with Barisan. Even if my name is synonymous with Sepanggar, I am confident something better awaits us," said Jumat.

He urged the crowd to forget past problems and look ahead to focus on winning the election.

"The party leadership has chosen its candidate and as Barisan members, we have to respect their decision," he said.

Jumat's membership was suspended in 2015 following accusations over postings on his Facebook page which allegedly criticised Sabah Chief Minister Tan Sri Musa Aman.

There has been speculation that Jumat - who is serving a six-year suspension - might jump ship to Parti Warisan Sabah.

Popular and well-loved by his constituents, many were disappointed that he would not be able to defend his seat.

However, Jumat said he wants to clear all doubt over where his loyalty stands. 

"My heart still beats strong for Barisan. I am a Barisan man," he said.