People’s Opinions: What they Say
- nabalunews
- 3h
- 3 min read
28 October 2025
PENAMPANG: As the state election draws near, people's feelings often become a mix of anticipation, hope, and anxiety. Many individuals feel hopeful about the possibility of positive change and progress, trusting that new leadership can address pressing issues.
Additionally, some people wish for the present government to continue their tenure, believing that stability and ongoing policies are best for the state's future. Overall, the atmosphere is often charged with a sense of importance and anticipation, as the future direction of the state hangs in the balance.
Most people know what they want where their elected representatives are concerned, and this is mirrored by 62-year-old Lucy Kunting a farmer from Kg Kelawat Kota Belud. She said she wants her State Assemblyman Datuk Ewon Benedick, returned as he had done a lot for his constituents and well known for being approachable to the grassroots.
Osmax Jude William, 43, who comes from Kg Tambulawang Taginambur, Kota Belud, and is a businessman selling his wares at the Tamu Desa, agrees, stating that the government should be continued. He says, "If I look at the current situation, I can see the progress. It’s visible and rapid compared to before. It’s was different from before where some roads weren’t sealed or strewn with potholes. His contribution has been a lot including Tamu Desa Buildings, assistance for small entrepreneurs among others. It's only during the term of our elected representative Datuk Ewon Benedick, that we see rapid progress. Therefore, I think this government should be continued."
Adam Geroda, 56, a businessman with a stall at Tuaran township, from Taman Shah Bandar believes that the government should be reinstated, as they have achieved a great deal for the people. He notes that development has been quite prominent in his area. “There is currently a road being repaired in our housing estate. A change of government might disrupt ongoing works, which could hinder this development, not just the road, but other projects that could benefit residents in different areas as well.”
Maria Alan, 60, a vendor at Tuaran Market from Kg Bontoi Tamparuli, praises the State Assemblyman , describing him as exceptionally helpful and genuinely committed to the grassroots. She believes he should be re-elected, as he has initiated numerous projects that benefit the community. “I sincerely hope he remains in office so that all the good work he has done for the people can continue and further improve our lives.”
Lisa Ilmin,45, a roadside fruitseller from Kg Marahang Gana Papar shares that she is quite satisfied with their present State Assemblyman as he had helped them a lot in the past. He had been their representative for a long time. “I hope that in future he can help us with our roadside stalls as its proximity to the road is deemed dangerous by the Public Works Department. Perhaps to a place where we can have electricity, water and toilets.”
Tony Danip, 42, from Kg Gana Papar, who sells roasted meat by the roadside, agrees, stating that his area’s Assemblyman has performed his duties well and served the community to the best of his ability. “He visits people in distress during floods and landslides, attends funerals, and is generally approachable. I believe the government should be reinstated, although it might be beneficial to have new leaders with fresh ideas. However, if they are unable to deliver, it might not be a positive change.”
Nas Nasius, 39, another roast meat vendor from Kg Kopimpinan, Papar shares that he is comfortable with the current Assemblyman being re-elected. “He is approachable and maintains good relations with the grassroots. I just hope our issue with the stalls near the road will be addressed. They could help by relocating us further back to the open area behind us. This is our main source of livelihood.”
While elections are a vital part of democratic governance, the return of a government within the State offers clear benefits that support stability, growth, and development. Continuity in leadership fosters confidence both domestically and internationally, enabling the state to implement policies effectively and pursue long-term goals with consistency.
