Sabah, Sarawak boleh jadi ‘king maker’, kata Ewon

Presiden Upko Ewon Benedick has stated that the political strength of Sabah and Sarawak should not be underestimated, including their role in determining the leadership of the federal government. Sabah and Sarawak have the potential to become "king makers" in deciding who will lead the federal government, including who will be the Prime Minister.

He views this within a larger context, noting that the federal government or Malaysia as a nation would not exist without these two states. Therefore, Sabah and Sarawak must be part of the federal government and the administration of this country, and can also become "king makers" in deciding whether to continue the federation or not.

He emphasized that the position of Sabah and Sarawak needs to be utilized to ensure their interests are always considered in federal governance, in line with their role in the formation of Malaysia. The Deputy Chief Minister of Sabah noted that this is in line with the statement of the Chairman of the Barisan Nasional and Perikatan Nasional, Larry Sng, who said that the Sabahan and Sarawakian People's Party and the Sarawak Sabahan People's Party (GRS) would not become the next "king makers" if the Barisan Nasional and Perikatan Nasional secure a large majority in the 2016 General Election.

Ewon expressed hope that Upko could contest for the parliamentary seats in Tuaran and Penampang, which are held by the party. He mentioned that he will choose to contest through the internal process in the GRS, but surely there will be a time to speak, discuss with the Chief Minister and colleagues in the GRS.