KOTA KINABALU: A former Sabah state footballer is being tipped to stand in the interior Nabawan seat on a Parti Kesejahteraan Demokratik Masyarakat (KDM) ticket in the coming 17th state election.
Jekerison Kilan, who left the sports arena for politics, is said to be the main challenger to incumbent assemblyman, Datuk Abdul Ghani Mohamed Yassin, representing Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS).
Having spearheaded Nabawan KDM for two years, Jekerison, who is also Pensiangan KDM chairman, expressed his willingness to contest in the Nabawan state constituency if given the opportunity.
"I am always open and have no problem being a candidate because I have been prepared for a long time, both in terms of work experience and mentally, physically, and logistically.
"Over the past two years, I have frequently met with residents to delve into and understand the needs, hardships, and problems faced by the community in the Nabawan area,” he said.
Jekerison said that based on the latest trends in public support, Nabawan voters, who are predominantly from the Murut tribe, want 'change'.
According to him, many residents of Nabawan are disappointed with the current situation, especially the ongoing land issues and infrastructure problems.
The graduate with a Diploma in Political Science is determined to bring as much development as possible to the Nabawan state constituency for the good and well-being of the people if given the mandate.
Before his political career, Jekerison was celebrated as one of Sabah's top defenders while playing for the Rhinos from 1989 to 1998.
Recognised for his speed and strength, the Nabawan native from Kampung Malinja, affectionately known as "Roberto Baggio", also donned the Negri Sembilan team jersey in 1994.
Unlike the struggle on the football field, where the players' hard work and sweat were essential, Jekerison said life as a politician was more challenging because it is accompanied by heavy and holistic responsibilities, namely "solving all the people's problems".
