KOTA KINABALU: Outgoing Sabah Pakatan Harapan chairman Datuk Seri Christina Liew (pic) has graciously accepted her defeat in the coalition’s leadership election.
"I am grateful for the opportunity to have served as Pakatan’s chairman in Sabah. Regarding this election, I lost by three votes. Initially, I thought it was more, but that is fine. It is time to move forward and focus on what lies ahead," she said.
Liew was defeated by United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (Upko) president Datuk Ewon Benedick during the Sabah Pakatan meeting in Kota Kinabalu on Sunday (Dec 1).
As the Api-Api PKR division chief, Liew stated that her immediate priority is preparing for the upcoming state election.
"We are already busy planning and coordinating within the coalition and PKR to ensure we are ready. Additionally, we have a party election scheduled for the middle of next year. Both present significant challenges, but we are determined to face them head-on," she told reporters.
The Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister has served as Sabah Pakatan’s chairman for seven years since 2017.
"The work does not stop, and I want to thank everyone who has supported Sabah Pakatan thus far. I am confident the new leadership will continue building on the foundations we have established over the years.
"Leadership changes are a natural part of progress. If this new team is what is needed to bring greater success to Pakatan, I offer my full support. Our overarching mission remains the same: to secure a better future for Sabah and Malaysia.
"It is time to unite for a bigger victory, and I trust the coalition will move forward with strength and purpose under the new leadership," she said.
Meanwhile, Sabah DAP chairman Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe expressed confidence in Benedick’s leadership, stating it would propel Sabah Pakatan to greater heights.
"As highlighted by our new Sabah Pakatan chairman, Datuk Ewon Benedick, today’s meeting was lengthy but highly productive and meaningful. It was attended by all four component parties, Upko, DAP, PKR, and Amanah, and marked a significant milestone for Sabah Pakatan.
"This is my first time attending in my capacity as DAP Sabah chairman, and I am proud of the robust discussions we had, which focused on formulating strategies for the upcoming state election.
"This annual general meeting sets the tone and direction for Sabah Pakatan as a major player in the state’s political landscape," he said.
Phoong commended Benedick’s capabilities, reflecting on their years of collaboration in government, corporate roles, and now as ministers.
"I know him to be a capable leader with a clear vision for Sabah. His leadership will bring a fresh perspective and renewed hope to the people of Sabah.
"As a younger leader among mainstream coalitions, he represents a dynamic and energetic new chapter for Sabah Pakatan. This shift in leadership will inspire confidence among Sabahans, demonstrating our commitment to serving their best interests with fresh ideas and determination,” he said.
Looking ahead, Phoong said discussions on critical matters such as seat negotiations and election strategies would take place at their next meeting in December.
"As his deputy chairman in Sabah Pakatan, I will fully support him to ensure the coalition remains relevant and the preferred choice for the people of Sabah. Together, we will work towards a stronger coalition and a better future for Sabah," he said.
