Newly-minted Kimanis MP visits people on the ground to thank them for their support

Datuk Mohamad Alamin who won the Kimanis by election, pouring some drinks from a vendor at the tamu (weekly market) in Membakut town, for visitors as a way to thank them for voting him. ZULAZHAR SHEBLEE/ THE STAR

BEAUFORT: Datuk Mohamad Alamin went to the tamu (weekly market) in Membakut, fresh after winning the Kimanis seat to thank the people for voting for him.

He arrived around 9.45am on Sunday (Jan 19) and proceeded to talk with patrons at coffee shops before going to the tamu nearby.

He was mobbed by people eager to take selfies with the newly-minted Kimanis MP.

Mohamad spent about an hour and a half chatting with the people, and even went behind a drinks stall to help serve beverages to locals.

"This walkabout is my first programme after being announced as winner of the seat and I will proceed to Bongawan town later.

"While this is not the first time I become a YB (past experience as Bongawan assemblyman), I will use this chance to bring matters close to the people's hearts to parliament level," the Kimanis Umno division chief told reporters later.

Mohamad won with a 2,029 majority for the parliamentary seat on Saturday, garnering 12,706 votes in a straight fight against Parti Warisan Sabah's Datuk Karim Bujang, who obtained 10,677 votes.

Mohamad also said he will continue voicing their objection against Sabah Temporary Pass (PSS), which was one of the heated discussions during the campaign period.

"With Warisan's loss, we hope to send them a message to cancel the PSS.

"If they want the people to live without worrying, they have to consider this," he said, adding that cost of living was also another concern voiced by Kimanis constituents.

Asked if he would emulate Sabah Umno chief Datuk Bung Moktar (the only other Sabah Umno representative in parliament) who is known for being vocal during parliament proceedings, he replied,"I will be myself, we both have different styles and approaches, but our goals and agendas are the same." - Star