TAWAU: Parti Harapan Rakyat Sabah (PHRS) President Tan Sri Liew Yun Fah said he decided to give way to the younger generation, particularly Gagasan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) candidate Samsiah Usman, for the Kukusan state seat.
Liew said his decision not to contest was a strategy to ensure that youths have leaders who are close to them.
“Give the opportunity to a new candidate. The voice of young people matters. Samsiah has ideas, commitment, and the capability to look after the youths of Kukusan,” he said.
He said many young people are forced to work outside the area due to lack of opportunities, and this must be corrected immediately.
Liew said the Prime Minister has also committed to cooperating in development agendas in Kukusan and Merotai, which require consistent leadership from GRS.
“I support the GRS government because their work aligns with the needs of young people. Kukusan and Merotai need consistent development, not political experiments,” he added.
Liew said the gazettement of villages must be expedited so residents can have certainty over land rights.
“The land belongs to the villagers. We want it approved quickly so they can live peacefully without facing uncertainty,” he urged.
He reminded candidates not to “get too comfortable after winning,” stressing that this state election demands strong cooperation within GRS.
“GRS must remain united. Eighty per cent of voters in Kukusan and Merotai are local residents. They know who actually works and who only shows up during elections,” he said.
He said PHRS remains committed to supporting GRS candidates and giving Samsiah the chance to champion the youth agenda in Kukusan.