KOTA KINABALU: Parti Warisan two-time election candidate Jo-Anna Henley Rampas has refuted claims that she has switched parties.
The former beauty queen made her electoral debut in 2018 for the Kiulu state seat and in 2022 for the Tuaran parliamentary seat, losing both elections.
During the Warisan annual general meeting here, the 34-year-old was also absent.
"That rumor (of me joining another party) is false.
I'm currently taking a step back from the front lines of any political parties, including Warisan.
"I am now shifting my focus towards making policy recommendations and hosting my current podcast, Smart Talks.
"I just got back from Brazil after attending the annual world young leader policy discussions on the social dimension of climate change," she told the New Straits Times, adding that she is still a Warisan member.
When asked why she made such a decision, Jo-Anna said that she believes both looking at policy and engaging in grassroots efforts are essential in public service.
"In fact, I will continue to engage with the community through non-governmental organisations."