KOTA KINABALU: A growing wave of support from Muslim bumiputra voters is reshaping Upko’s political base in Libaran, a shift that party leaders say reflects changing sentiments ahead of the Sabah state election.
Upko information chief Dr Peter Jr Naintin said the development marks a significant moment for the multiracial party, long regarded as having a predominantly Christian Kadazandusun base.
“This is a positive sign that the people in Libaran are looking for change,” he said during the Upko Libaran Hari Raya Open House held at Rainforest Hall, RDC Sepilok, Sandakan on Saturday (April 12).
“The party’s membership here now includes a sizeable number of Muslim bumiputra members. We see this as the rakyat showing they are ready for a new kind of politics — one that is more inclusive and people-focused.”
Peter, who is also Upko Libaran divisional chief, said the party has been working on the ground in Libaran to listen to voters, understand their concerns and offer practical solutions to local issues.
He stressed that any political victory should not be seen as a win for the party alone, but for the people of Libaran.
“This is not about Parti Upko winning. It is about giving the rakyat a voice and bringing meaningful development to the area,” he said.
Sabah is expected to hold its state election soon, with political parties already mobilising support on the ground.
Peter also pointed out that Upko is the only Sabah-based party currently in the Pakatan Harapan coalition at the federal level.
He highlighted the importance of continued cooperation within the unity government, noting that while the federal alliance comprises 19 parties, Sabah’s local political landscape requires a more flexible approach.
Upko is a member of both the federal unity government and the state-level Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) coalition.
Libaran includes three state constituencies — Sungai Sibuga, Sungai Manila, and Gum-Gum. Peter said early support has been strongest in Gum-Gum, but the momentum is growing across all three areas.
“We are encouraged by the response from all three areas, and we want to continue engaging the rakyat directly,” he said.
