KOTA KINABALU: The Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) is still being seen as relevant in Sabah's political landscape since many young people have come forward to support the local-based party in the last state election.
Its honorary president Tan Sri Chong Kah Kiat believed the party, which was formed in 1989, still had a future, especially from its youth wing.
"I believe LDP is still relevant. In fact, I didn't expect to see so many youngsters supporting the party in the last (state) election.
"If they (the party leadership) know what to do, they will have to look after the young ones and nurture the youth for the long run. Not for immediate term," he said today.
LDP was once a component party of the Barisan Nasional (BN). The party left BN few days after the coalition lost the 2018 general election.
Since then, LDP remained silent until the 16th state election that saw Chong making a comeback and leading the party in contesting for 46 state seats.
To a question whether he would get involved in future elections, the senior politician and former chief minister noted he had retired from politics.
"I joined the last (state election) on the request of party leadership. They wanted me to help them, so I came out (from retirement) and offered myself as well as the party.
"However, the people had spoken. They have a mind of their own and we have to respect them. The party will continue, but for me I've always been in retirement (mode).
"It was just that one round, which I felt maybe I could contribute something back. However, we failed but it was a good outing nonetheless," said Chong.
In sharing his personal thoughts, he believed LDP would not be contesting in the 15th General Election.
He noted the party leadership felt that the people had become emotional based on last year's state election.
"Our political opponents have also succeeded in winding us up, associating the party with the federal.
"The anti-federal (sentiment) was strong, and we (LDP) were accused of being paid RM40 million by the prime minister or as runners of Umno, this and that.
Although we denied, the people no longer believe.
"Hence, it was all emotional sentiment and no longer rational. So, I don't believe my party will come out (in GE15). I don't know...we have to leave it to the president and supreme council," he said.
Chong was the party president from 1991 until 2006.