KOTA KINABALU, Nov 7 — The Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP) set the stage for the upcoming state election by becoming the first party to unveil its candidates, introducing six contenders — three of whom are new to electoral politics.
Speaking at the party’s headquarters after the 233rd Supreme Council meeting, President Datuk Yong Teck Lee said the announcement underscored the party’s readiness for the November 29 polls.
“This early declaration reflects SAPP’s unity, discipline, and commitment to serving the people of Sabah,” Yong said, as he presented a mix of seasoned leaders and emerging talents to represent the party.
The new faces — Yong Yit Jee (Likas), Henley Liew Yun Ye (Tanjung Papat) and Yvonne Yong Yit Phung (Segama) — embody the party’s push for youth inclusion and women’s leadership, while veterans Gee Tien Siong (Luyang), Datuk Edward Dagul (Limbahau) and Datuk Japiril Suhaimi (Kundasang) bring political experience and local grassroots strength.
“This combination of youth and experience gives SAPP both energy and credibility as we move into campaign mode,” Yong added.
SAPP Secretary-General Datuk Richard Yong We Kong officially handed over the Watikah Calon (letters of endorsement) and nomination papers to the six candidates, marking the symbolic start of the campaign.
As the first party to make its line-up public, SAPP has gained a strategic advantage, allowing its candidates to engage with voters early and strengthen on-the-ground visibility before rivals enter the fray.