TAWAU: Despite facing strong challenge, including backing from Putrajaya, incumbent Merotai Assemblyman, Sarifuddin Hata, again proved the seat is his.
Sarifuddin (Warisan) was declared the winner after securing 8,855 votes, achieving a majority of 4,016 votes to defeat his closest challenger, Datuk Ruji Ubi (Pakatan Harapan), who was also the Prime Minister’s preferred candidate and had to settle for 4,839 votes.
The other two candidates in the four-corner contest in Merotai, Hasan Haris (Perikatan Nasional) and Reyme @ Rhyme Kassim (Parti Impian Sabah), received 1,288 votes and 231 votes respectively.
Sarifuddin acknowledged the tough challenge he faced, as the PH candidate appeared to receive extraordinary backing from Putrajaya, with the Prime Minister himself visiting three times to help Ruji campaign.
“The Home Minister, Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution, also came repeatedly, not to mention the other Federal Ministers who came to Merotai to meet the people.
“I remained optimistic that the people’s votes were with us, especially after seeing the unwavering support from the youth throughout the campaign and the Chinese community who began shifting their support to Warisan,” he said.
He expressed gratitude for the support and prayers of all parties, especially the people of Merotai, which contributed to his victory and Warisan’s fourth consecutive win in the constituency.
“Thank you to all campaign machinery in every area and village locality who worked tirelessly day and night to ensure we achieved this unexpectedly large majority,” he said.
He added that he will continue serving the people of Merotai to the best of his ability, never forgetting his humble beginnings as an ordinary citizen entrusted with temporary responsibility.
Sarifuddin is also determined to use the next five years as the Merotai assemblyman as a “long campaign” heading into the next election, without having to wait for the 14-day campaign period after nomination day.
“I would also like to express my thanks to my fellow contenders, Datuk Ruji, Hasan, and Reimi, for their professionalism throughout the 14-day campaigning period from nomination day until polling day,” he said.
