Election over; let’s focus on economic devt — Tangau

SEPANGGAR: United Pasokmomogun Kadazandusun Murut Organisation (Upko) is ready to be ‘rebranded’ if there is a need to do so.

Its president Datuk Seri Panglima Wilfred Madius Tangau said this when he was asked by reporters to comment rumours that the party might be undergoing a rebranding process.

“In politics, the rumour will is always there…Upko has always been working on how to strengthen the party and how to make it more relevant and acceptable to the people, according to the times. We do that all the time. We will see how we can sync with what the people want.

“Upko is very pragmatic. We are addressing the demands of the people. This is what we want and this is what our members want.

“If there is a need for Upko to be rebranded, so be it,” Tangau said at the One Stop Centre Sepanggar Carnival 2019 opening ceremony yesterday.

On the issue of Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia’s (PPBM) entry into Sabah, the Deputy Chief Minister cum Trade and Industry Minister said that it is more important for the State to focus on economic development.

“This (PPBM’s entry to Sabah) is not an Upko issue. The Chief Minister has said that this is a free world and we are in a democratic country; anybody can set up their own political party.

“However, I was not privy to whatever gentlemen’s agreement that has been reached between the parties, prior to the election.

“As far as we are concerned, our agenda right now is to pursue economic development in the State.

“I am doing my part in assisting the Chief Minister to bring investors to the State and also to solve key factors affecting Sabah’s economy. We are more focused on that rather than politicking,” said Tangau.

He reiterated that a prolonged politicking is not conducive for the State.

“I’ve said this before and I will say it again, the election is over and now we want to strengthen the stability of the State Government. We want to have more time to focus on economic development for the people and the State.

“Let us try to reduce politicking,” he said.