UPKO to Contest 25 Seats in Sabah State Election

14 November 2025

KOTA KINABALU: United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (UPKO) President Datuk Ewon Benedick has confirmed that the party will contest 25 seats in the upcoming 17th Sabah State General election (PRU17) , emphasising a united push to uphold Sabah’s constitutional rights and drive a principled, people-focused agenda.

Ewon said he will personally lead the slate of UPKO candidates as they champion the party’s manifesto and its “Sabah First” agenda, rooted in the Malaysia Agreement 1963 and the Federal Constitution.

“I will lead our UPKO candidates in advancing our manifesto and the ‘Sabah First’ agenda, in line with MA63 and Sabah’s rights under the Federal Constitution,” he said.

He added that the party is committed to delivering principled leadership, supported by clear benchmarks and performance indicators for all candidates.

“We want our leaders to always deliver their best for the people of Sabah. That requires strong values, accountability, and measurable performance,” he said.

Ewon also stressed that UPKO will continue to champion the implementation of Sabah’s 40 per cent entitlement, noting that the return of the state’s revenue share is crucial for long-term progress.

“With the restoration of our 40 per cent entitlement, Sabah will have the resources to develop infrastructure and amenities, strengthen our economy and entrepreneurship, eradicate poverty, and improve the wellbeing of our people more effectively,” he said.

He appealed to Sabahans for their support as the party enters the electoral contest.

“My fellow UPKO candidates and I humbly seek the support of the people of Sabah,” he said.