Youth as Agents of Change: UPKO Youth Leads the Call for Unity and a New Culture of Leadership

PENAMPANG – Young UPKO leader Allison Chan has called for greater unity and collaboration within the party's youth movement, emphasizing that leadership should be a force for bringing people together rather than creating divisions.

In a statement following the UPKO Triennial General Meeting, Chan shared that her initial intention to contest in the Generasi Muda UPKO leadership election was to contribute more actively towards the development of UPKO’s Youth Movement, particularly in preparing young leaders for the growing role of Undi18 in shaping Sabah and Malaysia’s future.

She ultimately concluded that elections should strengthen a team, not divide it.

"Why should we fight among ourselves when we can unite and work together to build a stronger team to achieve our shared mission?" she said. Chan emphasized that true victory is not about individual success but about building a strong team capable of serving the people effectively. "What is the point of winning if only one person wins? For me, winning is when we have a strong team because no one can do it alone," she added.

She further called on young leaders to embrace a culture of mature politics, humility, and service, arguing that positions do not define leadership.

"Positions do not last, and positions do not define leadership. What truly matters is how we serve and whom we serve," she said.

Chan also shared the guidance from UPKO President, YB Datuk Ewon Benedick, who reminded young leaders that no position determines the value of one’s contribution, as every individual continues to play an important role in serving the people.

In her statement accepting the nomination as Deputy Chief of the Central UPKO Youth Movement for the 2026–2029 term, Chan expressed appreciation to party divisions, mentors, and supporters who had placed their trust in the new leadership lineup.

Looking ahead, she urged members of Generasi Muda UPKO to work together in advancing the SabahFirst agenda and empowering the next generation of Sabah leaders.