Nizam Abu Bakar Titingan, who seeks re-election to the Apas state seat, said the allegations were completely fabricated and aimed at tarnishing his image as the GRS candidate.

An image of Nizam purportedly saying “I do not need the support of the Bugis people” has been widely shared on social media.

“Was never said by me in any form of speech, public statement or campaign material,” he said in a Facebook post today.

“I am close to people of all ethnicities and communities in Tawau and Sabah. I have strong relationships and collaborative work with various community organisations including the Sabah Bugis Community Association and I am also an advisor to several other ethnic associations in this area,” he said.

“I personally met with the state leadership to obtain approval for the International Cultural Festival in Tawau, which was a success bringing together people of various communities. So how can I be accused of not wanting the support of a certain community?”

Nizam said he had instructed his lawyer to file a police report against the portal that spread the allegation.

In the contest for the Apas state seat, Nizam is challenged by five other candidates: Sarman Amat Simito (Warisan); Marsiah Omat (PPRS); Herman Amdas (Parti Impian Sabah); Dr Elmiariezan Ardan (BN-Umno); and Lim Ting Khai (PN-Bersatu).

In the 2020 elections, Nizam (then with PN-Bersatu) was elected by a majority of 2,049 votes.

Sabahans will cast their ballots on Nov 29.