SANDAKAN: Datuk Seri Panglima Bung Moktar Radin has urged the people of Sabah to stand up and raise concerns about the unfulfilled promises that have been made through catchy slogans, which have had a direct impact on their everyday lives.
The Sabah UMNO chief said thousands of the people of Sabah have great expectations and aspirations for the “Sabah Maju Jaya” (SMJ) slogan, which was introduced by the GRS government, anticipating to witness substantial and lasting advancements in terms of progress and development within the state.
On the contrary, Bung stated that the populace is currently grappling with a multitude of issues, particularly fundamental necessities like road transportation infrastructure, access to clean water, reliable electricity, and the dire economic circumstances.
Bung, who is also the Sabah Barisan Nasional chairman, asserted that there is no issue with the people questioning the SMJ slogan introduced by the government today, as it is not the same as disrespecting or disregarding the state of Sabah, as these are two different issues.
He said that Sabah Maju Jaya which has been the coat of arms of Sabah since September 16, 1988, is still respected by the people as the official slogan.
“However, what the people are questioning is the Maju Jaya slogan, a state development plan for Sabah for 2021-2025 formulated by the government to bring progress to Sabah, which the people feel has not been fully implemented even though there is only one year left in the planned period,” he said.
Bung said this after attending the GERAK17 (Grassroots Tour) Sabah UMNO programme for Sugud state constituency in the Beluran Community Hall on Friday.
Bung said that the people have been writing various comments, both positive and negative, on social media regarding the SMJ slogan to show appreciation to the government.
“They have not hesitated to express their dissatisfaction through their writings on social media and other media platforms regarding the grand idea of SMJ that has been mentioned but not successfully implemented, as the people are still facing various issues, especially in basic infrastructure, economy, and others.
“Actually, the people see the SMJ slogan from a broader perspective, not just as a mere rhetorical slogan. What they hope for is that this slogan is not only expressed in words but also felt in its implementation by the people,” he said.
Bung said that in realising SMJ, it is the responsibility of the current government, while Umno will continue to be consistent with its slogan of unity, loyalty, and service to continue serving the people in this state.
“Umno needs to rise and rectify this situation; the people need proper defence instead of being deceived by promises while the situation remains unchanged,” he said.
Bung, who is also a member of the Umno Supreme Council, said that Umno has also made significant contributions to the formation of the Unity Government at the central level, despite being denied the recognition and sacrifices made by Umno during the formation of the state government after the 16th State Election (PRN).
However, he said the spirit of UMNO’s struggle in Sabah will continue to be relevant in fighting to ensure the people of Sabah are continuously defended.
In this regard, Bung said that Umno in Sabah will only become strong if all its members are united and have a united heart, besides not shooting themselves in the foot.
“Put the party’s interests as the number one priority so that the survival of the party will be better defended in the future, with commitment and teamwork, organized work movements, and the right strategies to achieve success,” he said.
