In a Facebook post, Tiong openly expressed support for Ruji Ubi, saying he was well positioned to help turn Merotai into a “compelling tourism destination”.

Tiong, the tourism, culture and arts minister, said Ruji had extensive administrative experience and a strong understanding of government processes, making him an effective advocate for the community.

“With a clear mandate, he can streamline documentation, land matters and applications, and secure the resources needed to advance cultural and community development,” he said.

He also posted pictures of himself on the campaign trail.

Tiong’s PDP deputy Henry Harry Jinep had said that GPS was not involved in the Sabah election, and that any of the coalition’s members found campaigning in the polls would face disciplinary action.

Henry said this in response to a video of a PDP member in Marudi allegedly helping with campaigning in Sabah.

He said the member had acted “entirely on his own”, and that PDP had no business in Sabah.

“GPS is not involved with any coalition there. We are not taking sides,” he was quoted as saying.

He also said that GPS’s directive stipulated that none of its members should go to Sabah to campaign.

He said GPS chairman Abang Johari Openg had spoken to Tiong about the member in question.