UPKO Youth Supports Datuk Ewon Benedick as Sole UPKO Candidate for Penampang Parliamentary Seat

23 May 2026

PENAMPANG: United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation ( UPKO) Youth Penampang has expressed its full support for its President, Datuk Ewon Benedick, to remain as the party’s sole candidate for the Penampang parliamentary seat in the upcoming election.

UPKO Youth Penampang Chief, Billy Joe Dominic, said the support is based on Ewon’s track record of achievements, leadership principles, and clear development plans since becoming the Member of Parliament for Penampang in 2018.

According to him, one of the key factors is the successful resolution of various long-standing critical issues in Penampang.

“The Donggongon Tamu project, which had been delayed since 2018, has been revived and its implementation is now being expedited. The Donggongon flood mitigation project, which had previously stalled, has also resumed with additional funding allocated for the relocation of underground utilities,” he said.

He added that the first fast-track land surveying programme in Penampang had ended a wait of more than 50 years for residents of Kampung Togudon to obtain their land titles.

He further noted that the construction of the Kapayan Community Centre at Yusang Low-Cost Housing has provided space for community activities while strengthening local unity.

“The construction of the Babagon Bridge has greatly assisted residents, particularly when water levels in the Babagon River rise, while the construction of the Terian and Buayan roads has finally established land connectivity between rural areas and Penampang town after more than 60 years of waiting,” he said.

He added that Ewon Benedick’s continued efforts in advocating for the Penampang Flood Mitigation Plan (RTB) further demonstrate his commitment to the needs of the people.

Beyond infrastructure development, he said Ewon also has a clear development plan for Penampang through collaboration with the Institute for Development Studies (Sabah) (IDS).

“He has brought agencies such as SME Corp Malaysia and TEKUN Nasional closer to the community to assist local entrepreneurs, while also paying attention to education through scholarships, Parent-Teacher Association (PIBG) assistance, and contributions to schools,” he said.

According to him, human capital development has also been strengthened through support for spiritual and religious activities, including assistance for church development as well as contributions during Hari Raya Korban..

Billy added that public welfare continues to be prioritised through assistance for patients, donations of wheelchairs and hospital beds, as well as various forms of aid for those in need.

Ewon Benedick’s leadership principles are among the main reasons he continues to receive public support, he stressed.

“He has stipulated that his officers are not allowed to lobby for projects at the Penampang District Council or interfere in public administration matters to prevent abuse of power and corruption."

“He also promotes transparency in the use of funds by ensuring that assistance and contributions are openly displayed on social media as a record for the public."

He added that the “Sabah First” principle championed by Ewon, reflects his firm stance in defending Sabah’s rights, including issues related to the 40 per cent revenue entitlement.

“Since becoming a representative in 2018 until today, he has never been implicated in any cases of abuse of power or corruption,” he said.

According to him, Ewon is not a leader who indulges in empty rhetoric but instead focuses on work and solving people’s problems regardless of political background.

“He is always ready to listen to the people, build relationships with all parties, and provide assistance without discrimination."

“For this reason, UPKO Youth Penampang wants him to continue to be given the mandate as the Member of Parliament for Penampang,” he said.