UPKO is in good hands, we are ready to help Ewon - Bumburing

7 December 2023

By Wartawan Nabalu News

PENAMPANG: The United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (UPKO) is entrusted with a capable leadership in its President Datuk Ewon Benedick and has the support of senior politicians and former political figures.

Datuk Wilfred Bumburing, a member of the Sabah State Legislative Assembly and a former Member of the Parliament of Malaysia for the seat of Tuaran, said he closely observed the party's progress and its development, and he appreciated the fact that as a young leader, Ewon remained open to receiving comments and suggestions.

Speaking during the UPKO Alumni Pre-Christmas gathering in Putatan he said he had always advocated for unity among all the Sabah-based Parties such as Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) and Party Bersatu Rakyat Sabah (PBRS).

“However, it seemed nothing came out of it and as such, it just blew over. We have tried a couple of times, but it didn’t come to pass,” he added.

Bumburing who was also a member of UPKO from 1994 to 2012 said over the years, there have been significant changes in the political landscape at both the State and Federal levels.

“As time has passed, we have witnessed numerous shifts and transformations. Adapting to these changes has become an integral part of our journey.”

“The passage of time has brought about various challenges and opportunities, shaping the approach and decision-making processes. We as former politicians watch from afar and off and on, we chip in to make comments,” he said adding that they have learned to navigate the ever-evolving political scenario, allowing them to grow and thrive amidst the shifting tides.

He mentioned that his favourite topic to comment on is the food production in the State, particularly rice production.

“Currently, we are dependent on only 20 percent of our rice production, despite numerous suggestions from the government and others to open up large areas of land, among other measures. However, I believe that we should go back to basics and utilize the vast amount of neglected and idle land. I strongly believe that in order to develop the State's economy, the first step is to ensure sufficient food supply for the people. I had predicted a long time ago that we would face a food shortage, which could have resulted in a disaster,” he elaborated.

“Rice has become a luxury item, and there are people in villages who can barely afford to buy it. Thankfully, the current government's rapid intervention has resolved the problem.  It is heartening to see the government taking significant measures to address this issue. One of them is by giving the RM100 (eMadani) where one has to purchase items to utilise it and not cash it out. This is a very positive and commendable move,” he said.

He thanked Ewon, the Penampang Member of Parliament and Kadamaian Assemblyman as well as Minister of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperative (MEDC) for inviting and according to formers members the honour to attend the UPKO Alumni Pre-Christmas gathering.