UPKO Penampang Highlights Youth as Key Drivers of Moyog and Sabah’s Future

6 October 2025

PENAMPANG: United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (UPKO) Deputy President and Division Chief of Penampang, Datuk Donald Peter Mojuntin, underscored that young people are the driving force behind the future of Moyog and Sabah, not merely participants in the digital sphere but genuine “game changers” in community development and local politics.

He expressed this during the official opening of the “Champion of Champions” Mobile Legends 2025 tournament, organised by UPKO Penampang Youth (Gen-M) at Buhavan Square, Penampang. The grand final brought together the top teams from four qualifying rounds held earlier in Kg. Tampasak, Kg. Mahandoi, Kg. Ramayah, and Kg. Putaton Inobong.

“This tournament isn’t just about winning or losing. It’s a platform to foster sportsmanship, teamwork, discipline, strategy, and leadership, the very values essential in community building and life,” said Donald in his speech.

He also praised all participants aged between 16 and 30, describing them as “the digital heroes and heroines of the new generation in Penampang and Moyog.”

Donald highlighted that such initiatives showcase how local youth are not just following trends but are capable of harnessing the digital world positively, enhancing skills, building confidence, and promoting unity.

“When many talk about youth challenges, such as economic pressures and negative social media influences, you prove that the youth of Moyog and Penampang are extraordinary! You are not just players; you are game changers,” he declared.

He also reminded attendees that the 17th Sabah State Election (PRN17) is approaching, with over 50% of voters in Moyog and Penampang aged between 18 and 40.

“The future of this constituency rests in your hands. Your vote is your voice. If you don’t exercise it, others will decide your future,” he stressed.

He encouraged young people to check their voter registration, learn about candidates who genuinely serve the people, and vote with both heart and reason, not driven by emotion or trends.

“Many elections in Sabah have been decided by narrow margins. Your vote could be the deciding factor between progress and stagnation,” he added.

Donald also dismissed the notion that politics is inherently corrupt, emphasising that “if good people stay away from politics, the bad ones will take over.”

In closing, he called for the tournament to become an annual event that continues to foster unity, perseverance, and leadership among Penampang’s youth.

“When Moyog’s youth rises, Moyog rises too! When Sabah’s youth speak, Sabah will surely advance!” he passionately affirmed.

The ceremony was also attended by UPKO Penampang leaders, representatives from the Penampang Parliamentary Service Centre, and hundreds of young supporters from Moyog and Penampang.