Ewon: UPKO's struggle must translate into policies that benefit people

Borneo Post

17-05-2025

Ewon examining a handcrafted knife showcased at the event venue.
KOTA BELUD May 17): United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (UPKO) president Datuk Ewon Benedick emphasized that the party's political struggle and the people's aspirations must be reflected through government policies and initiatives that deliver real impact to the rakyat.
Ewon, who is also the Minister of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives, said that true political commitment goes beyond slogans and rhetoric — it must be seen through the implementation of meaningful programmes that uplift communities.
'UPKO will continue to voice its views and contribute to the development of the Malaysian Federation and a better future for Sabah,' he said.
Speaking at the UPKO Kaamatan Festival in Kadamaian today, Ewon highlighted the Look East Within the Country Policy, initiated through his ministry, as a targeted strategy to address the specific needs of Sabah and Sarawak.
'This policy was created to acknowledge the unique challenges faced by Borneo states compared to Peninsular Malaysia. We aim to ensure the people of Sabah and Sarawak do not feel left behind,' he added.
He stressed that agencies under his ministry have been directed to deliver inclusive services and introduce initiatives such as the Tamu Entrepreneur Scheme, Village Market Premises and the Craft Industry Financing Scheme, which are tailored to the local context.
'This is the trust and responsibility given to me by the people of Sabah, which I carry on behalf of UPKO in the federal government,' he said.
Reflecting on his political journey, Ewon shared that it began with the trust given by the people of Kadamaian and Penampang, and the support of the Prime Minister in appointing him to lead his ministry.
'We started with responsibility. We fight, negotiate, and act with consistent principles,' he said, adding that more needs to be done to boost entrepreneurship and cooperative development in Sabah and Sarawak.
With strong collaboration between the federal and state governments, he believes a better Malaysia and Sabah can be built.
He underscored that UPKO's role in the government is not just symbolic but evident in national policies, programmes, and budget allocations. The party, he added, is ready to work with any political group committed to national progress and the well-being of the people.
'Our goal is also to bring local entrepreneurs and cooperatives to the global stage, so their products are recognized not just in Malaysia but worldwide,' he said.
On national unity, Ewon remarked, 'Whatever slogan is used to promote unity, UPKO has no objections. What matters most is genuine unity, one that is embedded in policies and programmes.'
He also highlighted the significance of the Kaamatan Festival — not just as a celebration of harvest — but as a platform to honor achievements across various fields, including education, public service, corporate, entrepreneurship, and cultural preservation.
'The festival is also a symbol of our long-standing political struggle, especially in achieving the objectives behind the formation of Malaysia 62 years ago,' he said.
Ewon noted that of the many matters UPKO has championed, 13 issues under the Malaysia Agreement have been resolved and finalised — with nine of them achieved under the current Sabah State Government and the Federal Government led by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Chief Minister Datuk Hajiji Noor.
'As UPKO president, I am proud that our party is part of the federal cabinet and contributed to these important milestones, which are the harvest of our decades-long struggle,' he said.
Nonetheless, he acknowledged that there are still unresolved issues that require continuous pursuit.
'Therefore, UPKO calls for unity and cooperation among all Malaysians, especially the people and leaders of Sabah, so that we remain united in our mission,' he said.