Datuk James Ratib Criticized – “White Can, People Still in Hardcore Poverty”

KOTA KINABALU, January 5 – Sabah’s Minister of Community Development and People’s Well-being, Datuk James Ratib, who also serves as the assemblyman (ADUN) for Sugut under the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) party, has come under scrutiny after a photo allegedly linked to him surfaced on the Telegram platform “Edisi Siasat.” The photo shows a white can with a red circle, believed to be a beer brand called “Lundus.”

This image has sparked heated debate among the public, particularly residents of the Sugut constituency, known as one of the poorest areas in Sabah. Many social media users have questioned the sensitivity of a leader tasked with championing the people’s welfare but now linked to an incident that could tarnish the image of leadership.

Criticism of Leadership Priorities

The viral image has raised concerns about leadership priorities. Local activists argue that such actions signal a lack of attention to critical issues such as poverty, education, and infrastructure in the Sugut constituency.

“People here are struggling with basic issues like access to clean water and electricity. How can their leader be involved in matters that do not benefit the people?” questioned a resident who wished to remain anonymous.

“Sugut Needs Compassionate Leadership”

Political analysts view this incident as a test of trust in leaders from rural areas like Sugut. With hardcore poverty still rampant, residents need leaders who set positive examples and focus on developmental policies rather than controversies.

Meanwhile, Sabahans are eagerly awaiting further action from the authorities and Datuk James himself to clarify the growing doubts surrounding the issue.