Kinabatangan: Mohd Kurniawan Naim Moktar, 32, who emerged victorious in the Barisan Nasional (BN) stronghold of Kinabatangan during today's parliamentary by-election, expressed his gratitude to voters for electing him as their new Member of Parliament. The Kinabatangan UMNO Youth chief acknowledged the mandate given by Kinabatangan voters as a significant responsibility, committing himself to fulfilling his promises to develop the community.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Naim Moktar also extended his appreciation to BN chairman and UMNO president, Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, and Gabungan Rakyat Sabah chairman, Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor, for their contributions to his successful campaign. He thanked his mother, the BN party machinery, and the Sabah Unity Government for their support, emphasizing his dedication to serving the people who elected him.

Meanwhile, Mohd Ismail Ayob, 44, expressed that his victory represents a mandate to represent the Lamag residents in the state assembly. He aims to continue his previous work with non-governmental organizations. Mohd Ismail thanked all Lamag residents for their support and called for unity following the election, hoping to strengthen community ties in Lamag.

Mohd Kurniawan Naim Moktar won the Kinabatangan parliamentary seat with a majority of 14,214 votes, defeating Datuk Saddi Abdul Rahman of Parti Warisan and independent candidate Goldam Hamid. Mohd Ismail secured the Lamag state seat with a majority of 5,681 votes against Mazliwati Abdul Malek of Warisan. The by-elections were necessitated by the death of incumbent Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin on December 5 last year at the age of 66.