SABAH Pakatan Harapan (PH) has appointed United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (Upko) president Datuk Ewon Benedick as its new chairman as the coalition gears up for the upcoming state election.
Benedick, who is also Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Minister, replaces Datuk Seri Christina Liew, who helmed the coalition in 2017 following the departure of the late Datuk Seri Lajim Ukin.
He was elected during the Sabah PH Annual General Meeting today, which saw the participation of leaders from its four component parties — PKR, DAP, Amanah, and Upko.
Benedick acknowledged the significant responsibility of leading Sabah PH while citing the coalition's autonomy in governance and political collaboration.
“PH Sabah is committed to ensuring a brighter future for the people of Sabah while maintaining the stability of the Madani Government under Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim,” he told reporters after the state chapter’s meeting in Kota Kinabalu.
The move can also be seen as part of the alliance’s strategy to appeal to Sabah voters, reflecting the trend of support for locally led political parties.
Meanwhile, Benedick dismissed concerns over which party should lead the coalition, stating that the focus remains on development and constitutional rights, and the aspirations of Sabahans.
Sabah PH is expected to hold further discussions in December to finalise preparations for the state election.
Newly appointed Sabah DAP chairman Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe described the meeting as productive and meaningful, emphasising the coalition’s focus on building consensus and formulating strategies for the state polls.
“Today marks a significant step forward for Sabah PH as a major political coalition. Benedick’s leadership brings a fresh and hopeful direction for the people of Sabah,” said Phoong who was also appointed as Sabah PH deputy chairman.
Phoong praised Benedick’s leadership qualities, citing their shared vision for Sabah and collaboration as federal and state ministers overseeing entrepreneurship.
“It’s heartening to see younger, dynamic leaders stepping up. Ewon represents a new era for Sabah politics,” Phoong added.
Meanwhile, Liew reflected on her tenure, emphasising the progress made during her leadership in strengthening the coalition’s position in the state government.
"Sabah PH has always been committed to serving the people and advancing their rights under the Malaysia Agreement 1963. I am confident that the new leadership under Ewon Benedick will continue this mission and bring fresh energy to the coalition," Liew said.
She expects to remain busy over the next 12 months, focusing on the upcoming state election and Sabah PKR’s internal party elections scheduled for mid-2025.
“These are two significant challenges that will require careful planning and collaboration.
“We must ensure Sabah PH is prepared to face the state polls while also strengthening our party’s internal machinery,” she said. – December 1, 2024
