Lundayeh, Lotud also need representation, say Upko

Putra Jaya: It has always been the stand of the United Pasokmomogun Kadazandusun Murut Organisation (Upko) that the State Assembly seats have to be reviewed considering the population increase in several areas in Sabah.Acting President Datuk Seri Madius Tangau said the timing of the proposed Bill to pave the way for the creation of 13 new state seats was ripe.

"Our view about the people being represented by Wakil Rakyat (assemblymen) from each community is also an open secret.

We have been consistent, during our conventions and congresses over the years with such demand.

"For instance, it is high time we have a seat for the Lundayeh and Lotud community, and reinstate those which were there before, like Langkon," he said.

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Madius, who is also Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, said for the record, Upko have submitted several proposals to increase the State seats over the years, the latest being last year (2015). Upko had proposed for at least 11 new seats.

"We have also engaged with the relevant authorities about it," he said when asked to comment on reports that the Bill to create an additional 13 state seats would be tabled in the State Legislative Assembly sittings next week.

Sabah Deputy Speaker Datuk Johnny Mositun was reported as saying that once the Bill has been approved by the State Legislative Assembly, it would then be up to the Election Commission (EC) to draw out the new seats based on the needs of the state.

Madius said a major concern for Upko was the distribution of these seats later on.

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"From what we gather thus far, the new seats would somewhat address the perceived imbalance as is the case now where one party contests in more than half of the 60 seats," he said.

He assured that Upko would continue to work really hard with its Barisan Nasional (BN) partners – Umno, Gerakan, MCA, MIC, LDP, PBRS and PBS to ensure the end result is the best for all.

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