UPKO’s Decision Stands on Principle, in Defence of Sabah’s Rights

16 November 2025

KOTA KINABALU: The United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (UPKO)’s decision to withdraw from the federal government was made on principle and as a long-term commitment to safeguarding Sabah’s rights under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).

Its Secretary-General, Datuk Nelson W. Angang, said UPKO’s courage in taking such a difficult step reflects the party’s integrity and the strength of its convictions.

“For UPKO, when our views, voices, and decisions are no longer respected, we are prepared to walk away from government, even with two years of the administration left.

“It was not a small decision, but one made because we refuse to compromise on Sabah’s rights. We continue to support the government and respect the King. Ewon has only resigned from the Cabinet, and UPKO has exited PH,” he said when contacted today.

He was responding to comments made by an MCA leader, Pamela Yong, in a news portal earlier today.

In her statement, Pamela alleged that UPKO simply moved with the political tide and that its decision to leave the government was nothing more than theatrics.

Nelson, however, questioned whether MCA genuinely has the freedom to make its own decisions within its political coalition, or if the party merely follows directions from other components in Barisan Nasional (BN).

“From what we have seen, MCA has rarely—if ever—spoken about the 40 per cent revenue entitlement owed to Sabah.

“It is very easy to criticise another party that has the courage to make firm decisions and say ‘enough is enough’, yet MCA remains in BN despite repeatedly claiming it is not treated fairly,” he said.

Nelson added that the originating summons filed earlier successfully triggered widespread awareness, debate, and public pressure urging the federal government to honour Sabah’s 40 per cent revenue entitlement as provided for in the Federal Constitution.

“At the very least, the legal action opened the eyes of both the public and the government. Ask the people of Sabah yourselves—do they support UPKO’s courage and Datuk Ewon Benedick’s decision to leave the PH government in defence of our state’s rights?” he said.

Nelson also questioned what role MCA had played in the fight to reclaim Sabah’s constitutional rights.

“What has MCA done to advance Sabah’s interests? UPKO has been consistently championing MA63 from the beginning. MCA, meanwhile, complains of being sidelined in BN yet still chooses to stay,” he added.

He emphasised that UPKO’s struggle is not a short-term political manoeuvre but an ongoing effort to ensure that Sabah’s voice and rights are genuinely heard and respected.

“The courage to step away from political comfort comes from principle. UPKO will continue to defend Sabah’s dignity, and we are confident that the majority of Sabahans stand with us,” he stressed.