KOTA KINABALU: Giant killer Grace Lee Li Mei, who defeated state Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Christina Liew for the Kota Kinabalu PKR division chief post, has called on its members to close ranks.
"I would like to invite everyone, regardless of which party you supported before, to unite again, close the ranks of this party's struggle.
"After this party election, we are one family. Let's rise together, strengthen the division and ensure that the voices of the people of Kota Kinabalu continue to be heard and fought for," she said in a statement Monday (April 21).
The 55-year-old, who achieved a surprising victory over the 71-year-old three-term assemblyman Liew, stated that it was not a personal win.
"This victory does not belong to me alone, but to us all together as a result of our efforts, enthusiasm and the tireless hard work of the team.
"This is not a success to be proud of, but a great trust that I must shoulder with humility. I will continue to work, go to the field and be the voice for the people and their aspirations.
"Politics is not about name or power but about service and love for the community," Lee said, in thanking her supporters for placing their trust in her.
Lee, who was treasurer for the division from 2023-24, served as Api Api community development officer under Liew's constituency from 2018-20 and again from 2023 to February 2025 when she was removed and replaced.
Lee, who was formerly in the hospitality industry, secured 1,381 votes, while Liew received 1,157 votes, losing by a margin of 224 votes in the party's division election held on Sunday (April 20).
Liew has not commented on her defeat.
