PETAGAS: From “jaga kambing” to a political contender, Jason Lee said his move into politics was driven by one belief, which is that Sabah needs a stronger voice.
The Upko candidate for Petagas in the recent Sabah election said his background in entrepreneurship and livestock taught him the value of hard work long before he entered the political arena.
“I raised goats, chickens, fish and planted vegetables,” said Lee, who holds an accounting degree.
Lee was also recognised as one of the top goat breeders in Sabah, holding national titles such as Penternak Jaya Malaysia and Penternak Perdana Malaysia.
But he insists that the future should not rest on the achievements of his generation alone.
“We won’t be here forever. The ones who will run and administer Sabah are the youth.
“We must emphasise education for young Sabahans and give them opportunities equal to those in the peninsula,” he said.
He expressed concern that rural students especially in places like Pensiangan and Nabawan continue to be denied quality education.
“If people in the peninsula can access the best education, why can’t Sabahans?
“Our money is taken over there. The best education ends up there. Meanwhile, Sabah is denied what is rightfully ours. That’s why we are demanding MA63 and the 40 per cent return.
“Education remains the foundation for Sabah’s rise. Without education, we are still under the coconut shell,” he added.
He also reaffirmed Upko’s guiding principle of “Sabah First,” which prioritises all decisions related to Sabah’s development.
“Whatever concerns Sabah must place Sabah first.
“If Sarawak can secure its rights, why can’t Sabah? If Sarawak can do it, we can do the same,” said Lee.
Lee also thanked Upko President Datuk Ewon Benidect for contributions to the Tionghoa and Tapikong communities here, stressing the need for leaders who remain present after elections.
“The Chinese community needs leaders who don’t disappear after polling day.
“They need someone who can work with them, listen to their concerns, and help solve their problems,” said Lee.
Among the main issues highlighted by residents were recurring floods, clogged drains, water supply inconsistencies, and poor waste management.
“These problems make life difficult. Even business owners struggle because of them.
“Many residents also raised concerns about the lack of a proper waste collection centre and the high assessment rates (cukai pintu).
“The assessment tax is very high. We can discuss with the district council on possibly reducing it,” he said.
