Yusof Apdal confirms running for USIA presidency

KOTA KINABALU (Nov 5): Deputy Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Mohammad Yusof Apdal has confirmed running for the presidency of United Sabah Islamic Association (USIA) at its 38th annual general meeting on Dec 7.

Upon receiving the confirmation letter regarding his eligibility to contest, Yusof expressed gratitude for the decision made by the USIA divisions to nominate him for leadership of the organisation for the 2025-2027 term.

“I hereby affirm my candidacy for the position of president, in recognition of the nominations extended by the divisions,” he said in a statement here on Tuesday.

The present USIA president is Datuk Sapawi Ahmad.

Yusof emphasised that the nominations reflect the maturity of the USIA divisions in promoting democratic values within the organisation.

“I extend my heartfelt thanks to the divisions for their confidence in nominating me as the candidate for the president of USIA,” he remarked.

He articulated his intention to revitalise USIA’s role in the field of dakwah, asserting that USIA must return to its original right path.

“In recent years, USIA’s outreach efforts have not been as robust as they once were.

“Members at the divisions often express concerns regarding this decline, despite the fact that preaching is the ‘core business’ of USIA.

“Motivated by their concerns, I have decided to run for the highest office within USIA,” he added.

Madaile Basri, the senior vice president of USIA, has confirmed his candidacy for the position of deputy president.

Madaile will collaborate with Yusof, aiming to enhance USIA’s role as an Islamic NGO that adheres to its foundational principles.

Madaile also voiced his disappointment, noting that the current USIA appears to have strayed from its mission in advancing the dakwah movement.