SANDAKAN: Tanjong Papat KDM candidate Frankie Poon stated that, based on his own political experience, he pointed out the development challenges faced by Sabah under the current political framework and called on voters to support the locally rooted KDM in the upcoming election.
Speaking as someone who has “been through it all”, Frankie Poon highlighted Sabah’s passive position within the existing system. “Under the old political framework, Sabah is like a child who first empties its own wallet to hand over funds and then anxiously waits for allocations,” he said.
He indicated that this model severely restricts Sabah’s autonomous development.
Using history as a mirror, he further referenced the different choices made by Singapore and Brunei. “Singapore grew stronger due to its astute financial arrangements and ultimately left, while Brunei chose not to join, foreseeing the prospects. Today, both enjoy the autonomy and prosperity we envy,” he questioned. “And what has our Sabah gained from joining Malaysia?”
Analysis: KDM Local Force is the Key
Regarding Sabah’s political way forward, Frankie Poon clearly pointed towards the local force represented by KDM. He warned that if dominance by West Malaysian parties continues, the fate of constituencies like Tanjong Papat will still be decided by “West Malaysian bosses”, making it difficult to safeguard local interests.
Simultaneously, he assessed the governance prospects of another local party, Parti Warisan, believing it “has no possibility of governing Sabah alone, let alone providing the Chief Minister.” He believes this reality means Sabah’s local political forces urgently need consolidation.
Frankie Poon emphasised that KDM’s foundation and interests are completely rooted in Sabah. “KDM’s candidate for Chief Minister is a local,” he pointed out. “Its decision-making core is closely tied to Sabah’s future destiny, making it a key force that can more steadfastly defend Sabah’s rights under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).”
Frankie Poon issued an appeal to voters, earnestly urging them to choose KDM, which can truly represent Sabah’s interests, in the vote on November 29, and work together to find a reliable new direction for Sabah’s future.
