PENAMPANG: United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (Upko) is taking the "mature" approach in its discussions with other components and coalitions in preparation for the Sabah election.

Party president Datuk Ewon Benedick said there had been discussions from time to time on possible collaborations.

"We are in the Madani government, which has several coalitions in the unity government at the federal level while in Sabah, we have our own dynamic.

"When we are with our friends from other components, we always voice our opinions, vision and party stance. We do not want one party to dictate on a certain issue, it has to be discussed maturely.

"But the supreme leadership at the party and Pakatan Harapan-level will give the final decision when the state election comes," he said after handing over a party membership card to former senator Adrian Lasimbang.

Ewon, who is Penampang member of parliament and Kadamaian assemblyman, said Adrian's return would bring value to the party, especially in terms of climate change and innovation.

Adrian represented DAP in serving as a senator from Sabah from 2018 to 2021.

Meanwhile, Ewon said that Upko will be holding its 30th anniversary celebration on Aug 9 here, whereby the party would invite Pakatan Harapan chief Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

The following day, the party will have its convention.

Ewon also disclosed that the party will organise the Kaamatan celebration in Kuala Penyu between May 11 and 12.

https://www.nst.com.my/news/politics/2024/03/1029873/upko-mature-talks-involving-collaboration-sabah-poll