KOTA KINABALU: The United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (Upko) is determined to continue initiating various proactive efforts aimed at improving Malaysia.
This commitment was expressed by the party's president, Datuk Ewon Benedick, during the celebration of the party's 30th anniversary.
In his speech at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) last night, Ewon stated that Upko must remain wise in the country's political dynamics by prioritising the welfare of the people.
"Upko must continue to launch various proactive and progressive efforts to make this federation better.
"Despite our diversity, we are definitely stronger when united. Upko should act wisely in the nation's political dynamics with a focus on the people's welfare, as outlined in the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) and the Federal Constitution," he said.
The celebration was also attended by two former presidents and founders of the party, Tan Sri Bernard Dompok and Tuaran member of parliament (MP) Datuk Seri Madius Tangau.
Ewon, who is also the MP for Penampang, added that Upko must continue to generate success stories that can inspire and motivate the people.
"All this can certainly be achieved if we all adopt leadership starting from our homes with a 'common sense leadership' approach," he added.
He also said that Upko's ability to reach its 30th anniversary demonstrates its sustainability and resilience in leading the people and the country.
Throughout this period, Upko has made its own achievements and contributions to the governance of the country and the development of the people.
Ewon urged party members and supporters to remain steadfast with the party and work together to grow Upko, aiming to celebrate its 60th anniversary in the next 30 years, followed by its 100th anniversary and beyond.
Upko was rebranded on Aug 8, 1999, from the Sabah Democratic Party (PDS), which was established on March 21, 1994, following the fall of the Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) government at that time.
At that time, Upko was known as the United Pasok Momogun Kadazandusun Murut Organisation before it was changed to the United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation on June 7, 2020.
The local Sabah party then joined Pakatan Harapan (PH) as the fourth coalition partner, after PKR, DAP, and Amanah, on Aug 26, 2021
Today, the party's convention is also taking place at the Sabah Cultural Centre in Penampang, which will be officiated by Ewon.