Upko pledges to help achieve M'sia aspired by founding leaders
Published on: Thursday, September 18, 2014
Kota Kinabalu: The United Pasokmomogun Kadazandusun Murut Organisation (Upko) is determined to help achieve the ideal Malaysia aspired by the founding leaders of the country. The pledge came from its acting President, Datuk Wilfred Madius Tangau (pic), who pointed out "generally, Malaysia had done considerably well" despite the long winded journey along narrow roads. "Upko was there at the very beginning and was instrumental in the formation of Malaysia.
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Even when Upko was dissolved in 1968, our leaders and the community never stopped doing their part." "The formation of Parti Demokratik Sabah in 1994 which we later renamed Upko in 1999 enabled us to once again have a political party for our very own people.Our track record is there for all to see. Today, on this auspicious 51st anniversary of the birth of our country, Upko is more determined than ever in its endeavour to help greatly in the nation-building of Malaysia," he said when asked to comment on the outcome of an Upko dinner-cum-forum, held in conjunction with Malaysia Day, Tuesday. "Four years ago, the then party President Tan Sri Bernard Dompok was at the forefront fighting for Sept 16 to be made a national public holiday as a recognition of Malaysia Day. Prime Minster Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak duly concurred.
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"When the Premier made the historical decision, indeed he had actually reset the process of nation building for Malaysia. Although the formation of Malaysia took only less than two years the process was by no means easy," he said. "This humble gathering of Upko leaders this evening marked a symbolic beginning of another tradition for Upko. From henceforth we will celebrate Malaysia Day Upko on an annual basis. We will also recognise August 31 as our National Day. Upko is in the arena with the Prime Minister."
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Tangau, who is also Tuaran MP, said Upko is aware of the sentiment on the ground where certain quarters are provoking the people such as the talk about Sabah seceding from Malaysia. "It is important that Upko leaders are given the historical facts, especially in the legal aspect leading to the formation of Malaysia." "Whatever it is, we are optimistic Malaysia will continue to reach new heights, the nearest being acquiring a status of a developed nation in six years time," he said. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express’s Telegram channel.
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