MEROTAI, SABAH, MALAYSIA November 20, 2025 – Pakatan Harapan (PH) candidate for the Merotai State Legislative Assembly (DUN) seat, Datuk Ruji Ubi, urged the youth and local residents to exercise their voting power on 29 November to shape the future of the area, rather than merely electing “one YB”.
In his speech at the Youth Relaxing Night Programme in Merotai last night, Datuk Ruji – who is also the former Secretary-General of the Ministry of Home Affairs – stressed that the choices made by young people will determine the direction of Merotai for generations to come.
“On 29 November, real power lies in the hands of the youth. Your choice will determine the future of Merotai, not the future of one YB,” he emphasised, met with cheers from the audience.
Also present was Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, who reminded everyone of the need to provide adequate recreational spaces and sports facilities for the youth. He said the lack of such facilities is often the cause of rising social ills among young people.
Responding to the issue, Datuk Ruji made a firm commitment: if given the mandate, the venue of last night’s programme will be transformed into a complete youth activity centre – a place where they can gather, train in sports, and develop their talents.
“I am committed – if given the mandate, the location where we gathered last night will be utilised as a youth activity centre,” he promised.
Datuk Ruji also informed that the Prime Minister has agreed to increase Sabah’s development allocation next year. However, he stressed, before the funds reach the people, Merotai needs a representative who truly works hard.
“I am not a postman who merely delivers complaints. Even in the four months before the campaign started, I have resolved several issues raised by residents using the experience and capabilities that I possess,” he said.
He further appealed for solid support from all Merotai residents to give him the opportunity to continue serving more effectively.
The programme, attended by hundreds of youth and local residents, concluded with Datuk Ruji expressing gratitude to Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution and everyone who made the event a success.
“May this effort become the starting point for greater renewal in Merotai,” he concluded.
The Merotai state by-election will be held on 29 November following the vacancy of the seat after the previous incumbent was stripped of membership.