For the People, for Progress

13 October 2025

KOTA KINABALU: The motivation of a person to run for a state assemblyman often stems from a deep desire to serve their community and make a positive difference. They are mostly driven by a commitment to addressing local issues such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, and economic development.

These are precisely the goals that Datuk Seri Wilfred Madius Tangau aspires to achieve for Tamparuli. He will be contesting the seat under the United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (UPKO) banner in the upcoming 17th State Election. As the honorary president of UPKO, Madius brings a wealth of experience and longstanding dedication to serving the people of Sabah. His journey in politics began well before he rose to national prominence; he was actively involved in political activities and community mobilisation long before contesting in the 1999 parliamentary general election. This early engagement allowed him to build a deep understanding of local issues and the needs of his constituents.

His successful transition from a behind-the-scenes figure to a prominent leader in mainstream politics marked a significant turning point in his career, showcasing his commitment, resilience, and ability to connect with grassroots communities. Throughout his political journey, Madius has consistently championed the cause of development, unity, and progress for Sabah, earning him respect and recognition as a dedicated advocate for his community.

On what he hopes to achieve after securing the Tamparuli seat, he shared, “In many regions, development and community cohesion remain ongoing challenges. Leaders and residents alike must strive to find solutions that balance progress with cultural and social integrity.”

One of the key motivations behind his initiatives is the desire to improve living conditions and ensure fair treatment across villages, where he recounted instances in which certain villages had been neglected, with some residents feeling marginalized or overlooked.

For example, efforts to build new houses and improve infrastructure faced obstacles such as bureaucratic delays and miscommunication, often leading to frustration among community members.

“A notable case involved a resident who constructed a beautiful new home using modern tools and applications to measure traffic flow. However, her efforts were hindered when authorities blocked her from continuing construction, citing encroachment and boundary issues, stressing that the area was gazetted as a grazing area,” he said.

Beyond infrastructure, Madius emphasised the importance of education and cultural integration. He expressed a vision to reform institutions like local schools and promote the use of Mandarin among young people.

Encouraging foreign students to attend Chinese schools and pursue higher education in China or Taiwan was seen as a pathway to broader opportunities and technological advancement.

In addition, the leader stressed the importance of involving local communities in governance. By visiting villages, engaging directly with residents, and listening to their concerns, he aims to create a more inclusive and responsive situation. This grassroots approach is seen as essential to building trust and ensuring that development efforts align with the needs of the people.

Looking ahead, the vision is clear, he said, to create a balanced, prosperous society where infrastructure, education, and cultural heritage are all given due attention.

Ultimately, the goal is to build communities that are not only economically thriving but also culturally vibrant and socially cohesive. By working together and embracing change, the hope is to create a future where everyone can enjoy a better quality of life, rooted in both progress and tradition.