KOTA KINABALU: Newly-elected Sabah DAP chairman Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe is committed to prioritising the party's unity.
The 35-year-old state Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship Minister and Luyang assemblyman gave this pledge after obtaining the second highest number of votes during the state party election.
He said his role would be to unify Sabah DAP and steer the party away from factionalism.
Phoong, who succeeded Tanjong Papar assemblyman Datuk Frankie Poon, noted that factionalism has been a challenge for Sabah DAP in the past decade, and he he aims to break this cycle.
"My heart feels heavy knowing that the democratic process inevitably brings about winners and losers.
"But we are not here as opponents trying to bring each other down. This party election was a means to select new leadership, not to divide the party.
"As chairman, my utmost priority will be to unite this party. There is no celebration in this win, just a sense of responsibility and hope to show Sabahans that DAP is evolving to meet modern needs," he said, pledging integrity, diligence and a commitment to represent the people of Sabah.
Phoong was speaking to the media after the party election at the Sabah International Convention Centre here.
Meanwhile, he expressed his belief that Sabah deserves a young, dynamic leader who can bring new hope, integrity and willingness to introduce positive changes for Sabahans.
"That is how we position ourselves. We want to offer new hope to the people of Sabah."
Besides Phoong, the lineup for the Sabah DAP State Committee 2024-2026 is as follows:
- Deputy Chairman: Datuk Chan Foong Hin (Kota Kinabalu MP)
- Vice-Chairmen : Jannie Lasimbang (Kapayan assemblywoman) and Noorita Sual
- Secretary: Vivian Wong Shir Yee (Sandakan MP)
- Treasurer: Henry Shim Chee On
- Assistant Treasurer: Lai Shiau Ling
- Organising Secretary: Oscar Sia Yu Hock
- Assistant Organising Secretary: Kaven Lee Seng Vui
- Publicity Secretary: Thien Ee Hang
- Assistant Publicity Secretary: Tang Szu Ching
- Director of Political Education: Grelydia Gillod
- Head of Public Complaints Bureau: Liew Chan Hang @ Amsi
Committee Members: Ben Wong Chun Miew and George Wong Hshueh Cheng