KOTA KINABALU: Candidates from several parties contesting in city-centre seats took full advantage of the opportunity to engage with voters at the bustling Gaya Street Sunday tamu, turning the popular weekend market into a colourful campaign corridor.
Just as shoppers were overwhelmed by the variety of fruits, handicrafts and souvenirs on offer, they also encountered a diverse selection of political hopefuls seeking their support.
Party workers moved along the crowded walkway, handing out flyers and pamphlets, while several candidates worked the grounds, stopping for handshakes, quick chats and selfies with curious patrons.
The usual, easy-going market atmosphere was enlivened by flags in bright party colours fluttering across the iconic street, giving the weekly tamu a distinctly election-season glow.
Kopitiam corners nearby were equally lively, with patrons sipping their morning cuppa as candidates stopped to engage them.
Among the earliest was Yong Yit Jee of SAPP, who came to meet voters just after the market opened. Yong is contesting the Likas state seat, going up against heavyweights like Sabah DAP chairman Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe in a five-way battle.
“It’s good to be on the ground to meet the people,” he said, adding that arriving early gave him a head start on a weekend morning as foot traffic builds up.
Also seen was Ting Shu Kiong of Sabah STAR, who is vying for Api-Api.
“Gaya Street is the centre of Kota Kinabalu. People come here to visit, stroll and drink coffee. It’s the best place to meet them.
“They’re relaxed here, this is where they’re comfortable sharing their concerns,” Ting said.
A party worker distributing flyers on behalf of Pakatan’s Thonny Chee, who is also contesting Api-Api in a five-cornered fight, said their presence at the tamu was crucial even when the candidate was engaged elsewhere.
“People arrive here with an open mind and a positive attitude. It’s important we’re visible and continue explaining what we stand for.”
Adding to the colour of the morning was an activist known only as Topi Merah, who stood prominently in the centre of the street, wearing a red cap and holding Sabah’s first 1963 flag, voicing long-standing demands for state rights.
“Bayar 40 peratus. Bila mahu bayar?” he said, referring to Sabah’s 40% revenue entitlement under the Federal Constitution.
“It’s already in the MA63 and in the Federal Constitution. Respect the agreement; implement it. What’s more to discuss?” the man said.
His presence drew curious glances from tourists and knowing nods from locals familiar with the Sabah’s rights movement.
Teoh Lai Keen, 50, a nearby resident, said this was the time candidates usually appeared in full force.
“This is the time we usually see candidates around, out to be seen.
“I hope they continue to be seen after winning. There have been many infrastructure issues plaguing the people for decades.
“The new state government must show its political will to bring solutions,” she said.
Another voter, Kamariah Johan, 39, from Api-Api, said she had already decided who to support but welcomed the engagement efforts from the candidates.
“It’s good to see other party candidates too, what they pledge to offer, and see if they deliver if they win,” she said.
Sabah will go to the polls on Nov 29, with a total of 596 candidates from major coalitions and parties, including independents, contesting in all 73 state seats.
