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KOTA KINABALU, El Sky News — The United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (UPKO) has officially announced its withdrawal from the Pakatan Harapan (PH) coalition, citing the need to prioritize Sabah’s autonomy and rights under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).
The decision was finalized during a special Supreme Council meeting held this morning at the party’s headquarters in Penampang. UPKO Secretary-General Datuk Nelson W. Angang confirmed that the move followed careful deliberation over the party’s four-year participation in PH.
“It’s Time for UPKO to Stand on Its Own”
According to Nelson, the withdrawal was not made hastily but was based on the growing demand among Sabahans for unity among local parties ahead of the 17th Sabah State Election (PRN).
“After four years in Pakatan Harapan, it is clear that Sabahans want to see local parties unite for the state’s future. It’s time for UPKO to stand independently and focus on Sabah’s interests,” he said in a media statement.
He added that an official letter regarding the decision will be submitted to Pakatan Harapan Chairman Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and all coalition partners soon.
Focus on Sabah Rights and the MA63
Among the key reasons for UPKO’s withdrawal is the ongoing dispute over the 40% federal revenue entitlement for Sabah under the Malaysia Agreement 1963, which the party says has yet to be fully implemented.
UPKO also voiced dissatisfaction with the limited autonomy given to PH Sabah in decision-making, including seat allocations and leadership appointments that are often dominated by parties from Peninsular Malaysia.
“We want Sabah to have full control over its direction not just follow orders from Kuala Lumpur. The MA63 agenda must be treated as a national priority, not a side issue,” Nelson asserted.
Maintaining Federal Stability
Despite leaving PH, UPKO assured that its two Members of Parliament Datuk Ewon Benedick (Penampang) and Datuk Seri Wilfred Madius Tangau (Tuaran) will continue to support efforts to maintain federal stability, in line with the King’s call for political continuity.
The announcement came just days before the Sabah state election nomination day (November 15), with polling set for November 29, 2025.
Political Analysis
Analysts view UPKO’s exit as a strategic realignment ahead of the state polls and a signal of renewed momentum for Sabah-based parties pushing for greater autonomy.
While the move strengthens UPKO’s “Sabah First” identity, it also poses risks especially the potential loss of federal resources and campaign machinery typically available through national coalitions.
UPKO’s departure marks a major turning point in Sabah’s political landscape.
By prioritizing the “Sabah First” agenda and MA63 rights, the party is positioning itself as an independent force in the coming election a move that could reshape alliances and redefine Sabah’s relationship with the federal government.
