Gutter politics unacceptable
KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah state election could send a clear message to the whole of Malaysia that gutter politics is unacceptable, said former Federal Minister of Youth and Sports Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman.
The state election is not another random election, he said, and that it was happening due to sell-out politicians.
“This is not just another election. It is happening because power and money were able to topple a democratically elected state government. For young people, and people who believe that democracy lies in the hands of the people, this form of politics should be rejected.
“What signal are we sending to Malaysians and Sabahans if we don’t reject ‘frog’ politics, politics with no pride or integrity? It is because assemblymen decided to sell their souls, principles and consciousness due to money, power and greed.
“This is a unique election and the impact is nationwide. It is your choice whether to support unprincipled politics, or dignified politics,” said Saddiq.
He urged voters to turn up in droves at the polls, emphasising that they were stronger together and they should stay united for policy-based politics of integrity.
On that note, Luyang candidate Ginger Phoong said Sabahans youth have always been very proud of their identity and believe it is an asset.
“We have always been very insistent of this and we are proud that we can sit and gather with no issue of race or religion.
“But this time around, we have to really secure a resounding majority to give the full mandate to Warisan Plus, because on the other side, they try to separate us by playing race politics. If we allow this, it could bring Sabah to a very toxic way of living,” he said.
Phoong said Sabahan youths should rise and stand behind Warisan Plus; stand behind unity.
“Our track record shows that in the past 22 months, the Warisan government has done well in terms of unity. We provide assistance and aid to the people based on priority, not race or religion. Diversity should be our strength, not a force to divide us. Don’t let them succeed.
“Stand firm with Shafie, he knows this is about the mandate of the people and that elected representatives have to be respectful of the people’s will and decision made in the last election,” he said.