Political activity is beginning to intensify across Sarawak as speculation grows over the timing of the state’s next election, with leaders calling on the public to remain united and avoid divisive political narratives.
Sim Kui Hian, president of Sarawak United Peoples Party (SUPP), warned that as election preparations gather pace, more sensitive political issues are likely to surface in the coming months.
Speaking during a post-Chinese New Year community gathering in Bau, the Sarawak deputy premier urged voters to remain vigilant and not be influenced by extreme rhetoric that could fracture unity among the people.
“As political activities increase across Sarawak, we must ensure we are not divided by politically extreme rhetoric,” he said.
Calls To Preserve Unity Ahead Of Polls
Sim stressed that unity among Sarawakians remains crucial as the state approaches a key political milestone. He added that maintaining public support for the current administration would be vital in ensuring political stability moving forward.
SUPP is part of the ruling Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) coalition, which governs the state alongside component parties Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB), Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS), and Progressive Democratic Party (PDP).
Early Dissolution Of State Assembly Possible
Sources within GPS indicated that the coalition may move to dissolve the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly shortly after the Gawai Dayak celebrations in June.
If the assembly is dissolved in early July, polling could take place between mid-July and early August, several months before the assembly’s official expiry on December 18.
According to a source familiar with the coalition’s planning, GPS is unlikely to delay the election until the final deadline, especially given the current political environment, which is viewed as stable and favourable for the ruling bloc.
Strategic Timing For Polls
Analysts note that holding elections shortly after Gawai Dayak could be strategically beneficial. The festive period typically fosters goodwill within the Dayak community, which represents a significant portion of Sarawak’s electorate.
Meanwhile, GPS has been intensifying its grassroots outreach efforts, launching numerous community projects and development initiatives backed by significant funding allocations.
Out of the state’s 82 constituencies, GPS currently controls 80 seats, while the remaining two — Padungan and Pending — are held by Democratic Action Party (DAP).
