Universiti Malaysia Sabah’s (UMS) Ramli Dollah said the change in leadership would allow the party to rebrand following heavy losses suffered at the Sabah state election in 2020, where it won only one seat.

“Its bad performance in the state election was a signal that the party needed a new strategy to woo voters. The change in leadership is part of the rebranding process, and that is for the best, especially considering the current political uncertainty,” he told FMT.

The incoming Upko chief would be able to rebrand and promote the party and expose him to national issues, and not just matters pertaining to Sabah or its constituencies.

Tony Paridi Bagang of Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) said Tangau’s decision to make way for Ewon was pragmatic and a sign that the party was being progressive.

Noting that Ewon, 40, was formerly the Upko Youth chief and now its vice-president, Bagang believed the Kadamaian assemblyman would bring fresh ideas on how to win public support.

He said Ewon would have to hold on to Upko’s core struggles and ideologies while synergising its role as a component party within Pakatan Harapan. He added that a more contemporary approach was needed to win young voters.

On Sept 28, Tangau announced he would not be defending the president’s post in Upko’s upcoming party elections, paving the way for Ewon to take over the top position.

Tangau will take up the position of honorary president after the current term ends.

Meanwhile, UMS’ Lee Kuok Tiung said Upko’s next challenge would be to field a new leadership lineup in a bid to regain the trust of voters.

However, he believed Ewon would not be able to do much to boost Upko in the next general election (GE15) which is rumoured to be right around the corner.

“He can present an impressive new lineup of leaders. It might not lead to immediate results (in GE15), but a strong leadership would help determine Upko’s direction,” said Lee.