Madius Calls for Values-Based Leadership at UPKO Triennial Assembly Launch

18 January 2026

KOTA KINABAL :United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (UPKO) Honorary President Datuk Seri Panglima Wilfred Madius Tangau has called on the party to remain firmly anchored in principled, values-based leadership and to prioritise the development of future leaders as it charts its direction ahead.

Speaking at the launch of UPKO’s 17th Triennial General Assembly on Sunday, Madius said triennial delegates’ conferences provided a critical opportunity for political parties to reflect on their performance, organisational strength and long-term direction.

“This is the space for us to assess what has been achieved, what remains unfinished and what must be improved so that the party continues to be relevant and trusted by the people,” he said.

Madius stressed that UPKO’s struggle must contribute meaningfully to the building of a policy-driven Malaysia founded on good governance, the five tenets of the Rukun Negara, and the principles agreed upon at the formation of Malaysia, as enshrined in the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) and related constitutional documents.

He said leadership should not be defined solely by positions or titles, but by influence, integrity and the willingness to shoulder responsibility, particularly in challenging circumstances.

“Leadership is influence,” he said, adding that courage, consistency, commitment and adherence to principles were essential qualities of effective leaders.

Drawing from historical and religious examples, Madius said true leadership was about developing new leaders rather than merely building followers.

“Organisations that only produce followers become dependent on individuals and weaken when those individuals are no longer present,” he said. “But organisations that build leaders continue to grow and adapt, even amid change.”

Madius said UPKO must be intentional in identifying and nurturing leaders who were teachable, disciplined and willing to learn, rather than those with a “know-it-all” attitude. He also called for greater openness in providing space for new talent while challenging them to improve and accept accountability.

Reflecting on UPKO’s political journey, he acknowledged that the party had faced difficult decisions and periods of sacrifice, some of which were not immediately understood at the time.

“Time is often a fair judge. Decisions made based on principle ultimately build credibility and integrity,” he said, adding that the public respected leaders who were honest, consistent and courageous, even if they did not agree with every decision made.

On Sabah-related issues, Madius said the struggle to defend the state’s rights and future must be pursued consistently and sincerely, noting that voters today were increasingly discerning and judged leaders based on tangible actions rather than rhetoric.

He said past election experiences had highlighted the importance of early preparation, organisational discipline and teamwork, likening electoral contests to examinations that required continuous preparation rather than last-minute efforts.

“If we want to succeed in elections, preparation must begin immediately after the previous one by listening to and understanding the pulse of the people,” he said.

Madius also emphasised that small but consistent actions could have a greater impact than grand promises, urging leaders to remain present on the ground and responsive to the people’s concerns.

As UPKO prepares for internal party elections, he reminded members that leadership was a trust that required sincerity, humility and a genuine willingness to serve.

“Do not be afraid to step forward, to be tested or to change for the good of the party and the people,” he said.

Madius expressed confidence that with unity, discipline and leadership grounded in strong values, UPKO would continue to be a respected and trusted political platform for the people of Sabah and Malaysia as a whole.

Also present during the event were UPKO President, Datuk Ewon Benedick Deputy President Datuk Donald Mojuntin and the Secretary-General, who also serves as Chairman of the Organising Committee for the Launch of UPKO’s 17th Triennial General Assembly, Senator Datuk Nelson Angang, among many others.