Kota Kinabalu (Jan 19) - Datuk Ewon Benedick has spoken out in response to public criticism surrounding his appointment as chairman of KKIP Sdn Bhd, particularly concerns over him holding multiple roles within the government.
Ewon currently serves as Deputy Chief Minister, Kadamaian assemblyman, Penampang Member of Parliament, Sabah Minister of Industrial Development, Entrepreneurship and Transport, as well as President of Upko. Critics have questioned whether these overlapping responsibilities are appropriate and have also alleged that his appointment contradicts his earlier remarks that government-linked companies (GLCs) should be led by experienced corporate professionals rather than politicians.
Addressing the matter, Ewon said his views had been taken out of context. He clarified that his position has always been that leadership in GLCs should reflect a balance between political representation and corporate expertise. He urged the media to refer directly to his original statement published on his official Facebook page.
Ewon further noted that it is common practice for elected representatives to chair major institutions, citing examples such as the Prime Minister chairing Khazanah Nasional and the Chief Minister leading Yayasan Sabah. He added that he is also preparing a list of corporate figures from various industries, associations and the business sector to be appointed into GLCs.
KKIP Sdn Bhd, which falls under Ewon’s ministerial portfolio, plays a key role in managing and developing Sabah’s industrial parks, attracting investments and strengthening the state’s industrial ecosystem. For Sabahans, the leadership of KKIP is significant as its performance directly influences job creation, business opportunities and long-term industrial growth across the state.