PENAMPANG, August 10, 2026 — Sabah and Sarawak could play a crucial role in determining the formation of the Federal Government, including who becomes prime minister, said United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (UPKO) president Datuk Ewon Benedick.
Ewon said the political significance of the two states should be viewed from a broader perspective, given that the formation and existence of Malaysia itself could not be separated from Sabah and Sarawak.
He said both states should have a meaningful role in the Federal Government and the country’s administration, including in determining its future direction.
“I see this in a broader context. The Federation, or Malaysia as a country, would not exist without Sabah and Sarawak.
“That is why Sabah and Sarawak should be part of the Federal Government and the governance of the country, and can become kingmakers in deciding whether to continue this Federation,” he said.
He was speaking to reporters after delivering his policy speech at the 17th UPKO Triennial Delegates Conference at the Hongkod Koisaan Hall, Kadazandusun Cultural Association (KDCA), here today.
Ewon said the influence of Sabah and Sarawak should not be underestimated, particularly when it comes to determining the country’s future leadership.
“The real strength of Sabah and Sarawak lies in determining whether the Federation of Malaysia should continue.
“Therefore, their role in determining who becomes prime minister and who forms the Federal Government should not be underestimated,” he said.
Meanwhile, Ewon said UPKO had begun preparations for the next general election by strengthening its organisational structure and encouraging party members interested in contesting to intensify their grassroots efforts.
On seat allocations, he said UPKO would negotiate with parties within Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) when the time came.
He said UPKO would put forward its position, including seeking to retain its two existing parliamentary seats — Tuaran and Penampang.
“At the very least, the two existing parliamentary seats held by UPKO, namely Tuaran and Penampang, should be given space for the party to contest.
“As for the remaining matters, I prefer to negotiate through the internal process within GRS,” he said.
Ewon added that no formal negotiations on seat allocations had taken place so far, with discussions expected to be held at an appropriate time with the Sabah Chief Minister and other GRS partners.
–Minutesmy
