Kota Kinabalu, Wednesday, 18 December 2024:
If Minister Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe were to leave office, Luyang’s skies would likely turn grey, and its ground may crack open. Even the stray cats and dogs by the roadside would want to cry. After all, it is Phoong’s tireless efforts that sustain the future of our community—its investments, infrastructure, and even the lights of the year-end celebrations. How could we imagine a hero like him simply walking away?
Rumours of Minister Datuk Phoong’s departure from government, allegedly stemming from instructions by DAP bosses in Kuala Lumpur, have left the people of Luyang deeply concerned, as this could lead to many promises unfulfilled and the community’s uncertain future.
Vendors who have patiently awaited their stalls in the multi-storey car park building may find their hopes dashed, as their dreams sink into the sea.
Should Datuk Phoong no longer serve as a minister, no one would be left to advocate for free parking for the residents once the two-month trial period at Luyang’s multi-storey car park ends. The community would face the unaffordable burden of paying RM1 per hour (double the standard green rate).
Landowners in the Kapayan 88 commercial area, who are embroiled in land disputes, would be left without support, vulnerable in the absence of Minister Datuk Phoong’s backing. Long-suffering buyers at abandoned Star City would also find themselves helpless.
Minister Datuk Phoong’s departure would mean Sabah loses a dedicated ambassador, who tirelessly travels across the globe to secure billions of ringgit in foreign direct investments.
Moreover, Luyang’s beloved TikTok and Facebook channels would no longer feature Minister Datuk Phoong’s radiant updates showcasing beautiful landscapes from around the world, leaving us without those heartwarming messages.
The highly symbolic New Year countdown event, rumours costing nearly RM10 million, may also be gone with the wind, depriving the community of its grand celebration.
Even the development of KKIP could face setbacks. Without Minister Datuk Phoong’s capable leadership, the long-neglected roads may remain unrepaired indefinitely.
We sincerely hope that Minister Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe will not be intimidated by political pressures from the other shore and will continue to serve in the Sabah Cabinet. After all, he was elected as a Warisan candidate with its resources and aura, and his position has nothing to do with DAP in Kuala Lumpur—so why should he be afraid?
Gee Tien Siong
Luyang Community Development Leader (PPM)
Chairman, SAPP Luyang Constituency Liaison Committee (CLC)
Vice President, Sabah Progressive Party