MENUMBUK: Former Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Dr Salleh Said Keruak today emphasised that politics must be grounded in sincere service to the people and warned against the growing trend of politics driven solely by wealth and business interests.
He believes that with the right approach, the Kuala Penyu state constituency can be turned into a stronghold for UMNO in Sabah.
Speaking at the opening of the Clustered Branch Annual Meetings of UMNO in Menumbuk, Salleh stressed that voters — including those aligned with NGOs and fence-sitters — are now more discerning and not easily swayed by money politics.
“We must engage NGOs, young people, and fence-sitters — not to manipulate them, but to show that UMNO’s struggle is about sincere service. We must convince them through action and values, not money,” he said.
He further noted that some individuals focus only on winning easily through wealth and personal networks without engaging meaningfully with the grassroots or earning genuine trust.
“Some think politics can be bought. They mix politics with business. This is dangerous. Politics is a trust, not a tool for personal gain,” he stressed.
Salleh also urged every branch to serve as a community action centre — listening to the people and uniting the grassroots.
“If we work honestly, sincerely, and consistently, the people will return their support. Kuala Penyu can be UMNO’s stronghold — not just to win, but to win with dignity,” he added.
