KOTA MARUDU: Four-term Kota Marudu MP Datuk Seri Dr Maximus Ongkili said he has contributed tremendously to the constituency and those trying to unseat him in the 15th General Election would have a lot to do to prove themselves.
The Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) president, who made a successful electoral debut in the Langkon state seat in 1994, said his efforts had transformed Kota Marudu to what it is today.
"Expectations of the electorate are now very high. Those who will take it (seat) from me obviously need to do many times better than me. Having said that, my eventual desire is to assist other new leaders do a better job than what I and my team have done for Kota Marudu," he said in a statement here today.
Ongkili, who is defending the Kota Marudu seat under the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) banner, said it was unfair to label Kota Marudu as one of the poorest districts in Malaysia.
"The people here have the purchasing power, so much so we were able to attract big franchises to invest here. To say that there is no development here, I would say Kota Marudu today is a far cry from what it was before in the 1990s," he said.
GE-ONGKILI (CHALLENGERS) 2 (LAST) KOTA MARUDU
The Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Sabah and Sarawak Affairs) said all the development did not come by chance and was the result of hard work and proper planning.
Ongkili said he was leaving it to the voters to decide on his fate in Kota Marudu.
"This time around (GE15), there were worries that I've been here too long. But (Tun Dr) Mahathir (Mohamad) is 97; I'm only 69. I offer based on my electorate, to serve the people. That is what is in our hearts; we're sincere to become a vessel for the development of the area," he said.
As for his health, Ongkili reiterated that he had gotten a clean sheet from the doctors, and that he is fit to contest in the election.
"They (doctors) said I'm in perfect health, but I still need to take care of my body and get enough rest. But I think, the zeal to serve gives you a lot of energy. I believe it is an uphill task, but I am confident the rakyat will support GRS for the good of the state and the people," he said.
Maximus is facing Datuk Jilid Kuminding (Warisan), Datuk Wetrom Bahanda (KDM), Mohd Azmi Zulkiflee (Pejuang), Shahrizal Denci (MUDA) and independent candidate Norman Tulang in a six-cornered fight in the Kota Marudu seat.
-- BERNAMA
Bernama
Wed Nov 16 2022
Four-term Kota Marudu MP Datuk Seri Dr Maximus Ongkili said he has contributed tremendously to the constituency and those trying to unseat him in the GE15 would have a lot to do to prove themselves. - BERNAMA/Filepic
Khazanah reports RM5.1 billion operating profit for 2024
Khazanah records RM103.6 billion NAV in 2024, driven by strong domestic investments and strategic growth.
Washington, DC officials identify 66 of 67 victims of midair collision
Work continues by the US Army Corps of Engineers to remove the airplane wreckage from the Potomac River.
Government to further strengthen ASEAN's readiness in finalising DEFA
Malaysia is focusing on two main approaches to facilitate the DEFA negotiation, says Liew Chin Tong.
Trade war will not hinder Malaysia’s GDP growth for 2025 - Rafizi
The finance ministry has projected Malaysia's GDP to grow between 4.5 and 5.5 per cent in 2025.
Trump administration considers adding Shein, Temu to 'forced labor' list, Semafor reports
The move comes after China imposes targeted tariffs on US imports and warnings of possible sanctions against firms like Google.
Thailand to cut power to Myanmar border areas linked to scam centres
Evidence shows transnational crime syndicates in Myanmar's Tachileik, Myawaddy, Payathonzu, that are possible power cut targets.
Trump reimposes 'maximum pressure' on Iran, aims to drive oil exports to zero
Trump signs the presidential memorandum reimposing Washington's tough policy on Iran that was practiced throughout his first term.
FACTBOX: Trump proposes US takeover of Gaza
Here are some remarks that US President Donald Trump made and questions that he answered during a press conference.
Singapore passes law against foreign interference in race-based organisations
Under the Racial Harmony Bill, race-based groups must disclose foreign and anonymous donations, affiliations, and leadership.
Malaysia, Uzbekistan agree to elevate ties to strategic partnership
Malaysia and Uzbekistan noted active cooperation on key issues within international bodies, especially the UN and OIC.
Musk's dad says he arranged son's call with South African leader
Trump's post claiming South Africa is "confiscating land" and mistreating "certain classes" triggers sudden flurry of backdoor diplomacy.
Israel PM Netanyahu says peace with Saudi Arabia is achievable
I think peace between Israel and Saudi Arabia is not only feasible, I think it's going to happen, says Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu.
Trump says UN has to 'get its act together,' UN pushes back
US President Donald Trump criticises the United Nations as "not being well run".
Police use latest tech to assist in renewed investigation of Teoh Beng Hock's case
Police says the technology could produce a clearer picture of the location where Teoh Beng Hock was found dead 15 years ago digitally.
Family of American killed on Malaysian Airlines flight can sue Russian bank, US court rules
The flight was shot down over DPR-controlled territory in eastern Ukraine by a surface-to-air missile, killing all 298 people on board.
FLOODCOM: M'sia's first floating flood disaster command centre using nuclear technology
The floating flood disaster command centre incorporates nuclear technology to accelerate emergency response and coordination during floods.
Saudi Arabia says it won't establish ties with Israel without creation of Palestinian state
Saudi Crown Prince affirms kingdom's stance in a "clear, explicit manner" with no room for interpretation, says foreign ministry.
What are five new critical metal exports restricted by China?
China announced sweeping export restrictions targeting five metals used across defence, clean energy and other industries.
Trump, in shock announcement, says US wants to take over Gaza Strip
The US will take over the Gaza Strip, and we will do a job with it too, says US President Donald Trump.
Air Busan to disallow power banks in overhead bins after plane fire
Any power banks should be kept with passengers so any overheating, smoke or fire can quickly be spotted and dealt with.