Kota Kinabalu: Penampang’s worsening floods cannot be solved with short-term solutions, said Umno Penampang Chief Datuk Mohd Hasnol Ayub.
He said instead, the State and Federal Governments need to have a sit down to come out with a long-term remedy.
“If we can establish provision, we can overcome this long standing problem for good but it needs the commitment of all parties, not something ad hoc or according to this or that politician’s opinion,” he said.
He was met after the Penampang Umno representatives meeting officiated by Supreme Council member Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz at SICC.
Among those in attendance were Penampang Umno Women’s Wing Chief Senator Datuk Noraini Idris.
In a non-Muslim majority district considered Sabah’s Kadazan Dusun fortress - Penampang, Hasnol said Umno, a Malay power - Islamic party is very much sustainable.
“Muslims and non-Muslims still pour support for Umno. Not all of them go along with the other parties.
“As long as we can fulfill the people’s aspirations and make them heard, then there should be no problem.
“Our intent should be clear, when there is clarity, it will transfer on to the members. We have over 7000 (members) and in terms of sustainability, we are,” he said.
However, he asserted that Umno Penampang knows their place in State politics.
“That’s why we have always been a supporting party. We know where we stand but will always have those to combine forces with us, come elections,” he added.
Zafrul said Umno Penampang is very strong with the key being that Hasnol sees the big picture in a harmonised multicultural country where Sabah exemplifies with its tolerance.
“Umno is here and open to help all, especially in Penampang, it is not only for Bumiputera malays but also non-Muslims,” he said.
In his speech, he said all Umno divisions are to practice the 3Ms - message, medium and messenger.
“Our message is Umno is important for the country, the medium can be social media or whatever to reach the target audience while the messenger must be someone credible or else the rakyat won’t believe.
“Umno as a party must not forget to work hard and most importantly be smart to ensure results. Time is envious of us, but we believe there is light at the end of the tunnel.
“People still want to see Umno or Barisan Nasional shine. Therefore, we must never forget the grassroots.
“That’s why I remind myself and others to walk the talk. Implementation must be in disciplined fashion,” he said.
