Sandakan’s newly-elected representatives urged to begin work immediately

SANDAKAN: In a direct address to Sandakan’s newly-elected representatives, Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP) vice president Thomas Lau Chi Keong on Monday issued an open letter combining congratulations with a decisive call to action, signalling an expectation of immediate work over political ceremony.
The communication is directed to the three assemblymen elected in the just concluded 2025 Sabah General Election: Alex Thien (Tanjong Papat), Calvin Chong (Elopura), and Alex Wong (Karamunting).
“The people of Sandakan have spoken. Their needs are clear and understood, requiring no further articulation from me,” Lau stated, acknowledging the electorate’s definitive mandate.
Striking a tone of urgency, Lau emphasized that the responsibility of the representatives begins without delay, regardless of their position in the opposition.
“There is no ‘honeymoon period,” he declared. “A mammoth task lies ahead, and these challenges must be faced head-on and relentlessly. Your duties commence now.”
The vice president outlined a framework for Sandakan’s revival, urging the trio to prioritize concrete actions addressing the community’s daily welfare concerns. He positioned SAPP as a ready partner in this endeavour, committing to constructive engagement.
“SAPP will play a holistic and constructive role, offering support where it is appropriate and beneficial for the people,” Lau affirmed.
He added that the party would monitor and contribute to developmental efforts across key sectors—economy, environment, and infrastructure—to catalyse Sandakan’s growth.
The core of the message was a call for unity in purpose.
“Reviving Sandakan is a shared mission. We can only achieve our objectives by working as a team and executing our duties correctly,” Lau asserted.
The letter concludes with a firm pledge of support from the party for the representatives’ work in driving progress for the district.
“SAPP assures all three elected representatives of its strong support in their quest to deliver tangible benefits to Sandakan. We wish you well in the difficult but vital task of serving our beautiful homeland.” – James Leong

Lau said SAPP will play a holistic and constructive role.