Kota Kinabalu: United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation’s (Upko) candidate Rosdy Wasli promised to tackle the long-ignored essential issues plaguing residents in Tanjung Keramat.
These include deteriorated roads, inadequate drainage and recurrent flash floods that are not just ongoing complaints but critical issues demanding immediate action to ensure community safety and well-being.
He asserted that frequent power and water supply disruptions are unacceptable for Putatan, a densely populated area.
Rosdy also highlighted the dire conditions at the People’s Housing Project (PPR) units, including malfunctioning lifts and inconsistent maintenance, as indicators of an urgent need for comprehensive improvements.
“Putatan’s density requires a shift from outdated governance methods to innovative administrative solutions that directly address the people’s core issues,” he said.
Addressing his change in political affiliation, a common question among voters since nomination day, Rosdy clarified:
“In 2020, as a Parti Amanah Negara (Amanah) candidate, I contested under the Parti Warisan (Warisan) logo due to a coalition agreement — a strategic decision, not a personal one.”
He said the evolving political landscape and cooperation between Pakatan Harapan (PH) and Barisan Nasional (BN) limited his capacity to serve effectively.
“Despite not winning, my commitment never wavered. Through my organisation and football association, I remained active in the community. The people know I stayed,” he said, noting that public encouragement motivated his return to politics.
“Upko’s unwavering advocacy for Sabah’s rights through the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) aligns with my core values, making it my party of choice,” he added.
He lauded Upko’s leadership for their steadfast defence of the agreement’s legal review, even when faced with significant pressure.
“The Malaysia Agreement 1963 is our legacy, not just a slogan. Sabah must control its destiny through a local party that truly understands our needs,” he insisted.
With 11 candidates vying for the Tanjung Keramat seat in this state election, Rosdy views this intense competition as a testament to the area’s vibrant democracy and the voters’ political sophistication.
He believes it allows the public to distinguish between genuine community servants and opportunistic election-time figures.
Rosdy urged Tanjung Keramat voters to surpass the 65 per cent turnout from the 2020 election.
“To achieve real change, we need higher participation. I am aiming for at least 80 per cent,” he said.
He appealed to voters to back local parties that genuinely represent Sabah’s voice and to elect candidates known for their consistent dedication, not those who offer empty promises.
