Melalap Voters Open To Non-Sabah Party Candidate For Development — Dr Zaliha

17/11/2025 06:33 PM

LABUAN, Nov 17 (Bernama) -- Voters in Melalap appear open to backing a candidate from a non-Sabah-based party in the 17th Sabah state election, as long-term development remains their priority.

Johor PKR chairman Datuk Seri Dr Zaliha Mustafa said Pakatan Harapan’s (PH) Datuk Jamawi Ja’afar continues to enjoy strong grassroots support due to his longstanding involvement in agriculture initiatives and non-governmental organisation (NGO) activities in the constituency.

“The presence of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in Melalap on Nov 16 clearly showed the appreciation of the local community to his visit. The people here did not show any objection to the presence of federal government leaders,” she told Bernama here today.

Dr Zaliha, who is also Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories), said PH’s election machinery has begun engaging voters to better understand concerns related to economic opportunities and infrastructure.

“Melalap has untapped potential in tourism and agriculture, but road connectivity must be improved. Many residents I met at the tamu (market) want progress and development similar to other towns,” she said.

Dr Zaliha expressed hope that Melalap would deliver one seat to PH in the upcoming polls, saying this could bring wider benefits to the constituency and to Tenom.

“They understand the importance of strong ties with the federal government to ensure continuous development. Their focus is on progress, not propaganda,” she said.

Jamawi will contest an eight-cornered fight for the Melalap seat, which falls under the Tenom parliamentary constituency.

The Election Commission has set Nov 29 as polling day for the 17th Sabah state election, while early voting is on Nov 25.

For the latest news on the 17th Sabah state election, visit prn.bernama.com/sabah/index.php.

N42: MELALAP: SABAH: 21,320

1. Gabriel George Tulas (Bebas/IND)

2. Priscella Peter (KDM)

3. Datuk Jamawi Ja’afar (PH-PKR)

4. Alviana Linus (STAR)

5. Cheld Bryend Lind (Warisan)

6. Junik Bajit (UPKO)

7. Kevin Chong (PIS)

8. Fatimah Ibrahim (Bebas/IND)