UMNO Vice President Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani has emphasised that only leaders originating from Sabah are fit to govern the state, underscoring this as a key criterion in selecting candidates for the 17th Sabah State Election (PRN17).
“Whoever they are, regardless of religion or ethnicity, the most important thing is to develop our country and this state. To uplift Sabah financially, ensure the well-being of the people and maintain political stability, it is crucial to be led by leaders who are genuinely from Sabah,” he said.
Speaking after the launch of Barisan Nasional’s (BN) campaign machinery for the Klias and Kuala Penyu state constituencies at the Command Center Sweet Cottage in Kampung Pintas, Johari added: “We will not bring in outsiders nor choose those who frequently jump parties. We want those who are true to the party, true to BN, and who work hard whether in victory or defeat.”
He added that voters in Beaufort would benefit if BN candidates Osin Jilon (DUN Klias) and Datuk Awang Aslee Lakat (DUN Kuala Penyu) were elected.
“Datuk Siti Aminah Aching, our Member of Parliament for Beaufort, is already successful here and collaborates with our two candidates. If they win, Beaufort will have an MP and two state assembly members from BN, ensuring benefits are delivered fairly across the constituency,” he said.
Johari also expressed satisfaction with the readiness of BN’s campaign machinery in the region. -November 15, 2025
