In a briefing with Sepanggar Umno leaders today, Salleh said the division will be central to BN’s efforts to strengthen its presence in Sabah before the next state elections.

This, the Sabah Umno treasurer said, was why it was important to rejuvenate the party machinery there, engage the grassroots and ensure the needs of the locals are met.

“Sepanggar will serve as a crucial point in BN’s future plans for Sabah.

“By working together and maintaining our commitment to the people, we can create positive outcomes for the state,” he said in a Facebook post.

The parliamentary constituency of Sepanggar is located in the Kota Kinabalu district, comprising three state constituencies — Karambunai, Darau and Inanam.

The Sepanggar parliamentary constituency is represented by Sabah PKR chief Mustapha Sakmud, while the Darau and Inanam state seats are held by Warisan and PKR respectively.

On the other hand, the Karambunai seat is held by Sepanggar Umno chief Yakub Khan.

The Sabah assembly’s term expires in October next year, unless it is dissolved earlier. An election must be held within 60 days of dissolution.