KUCHING: Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) formed on June 12 last year, will be an effective new political platform to fight for the rights, interest and future of Sarawak’s multi-racial community.
Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg (pic) described the unanimous decision by four Sarawak-based political parties, namely Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB), Sarawak United Peoples’ Party (SUPP), Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS) and Progressive Democratic Party (PDP) to form GPS as wise and most sensible.
“It reflected their commitments in giving priority to Sarawak’s interest in line with GPS’ slogan of ‘Sarawak First’ in terms of the state’s sovereignty, safety, equitable economic development, racial unity and harmony to ensure long-term political stability. GPS will be the bridge between the people and state leaders,” he said.
Johari was optimistic that GPS would be able to defend and protect the future of Sarawak in line with the aspirations of the people in this new political era after the 14th general election.
“I dare give my assurance to the people that this coalition will not be like the previous coalition. GPS will take heed of past experience and move forward as a more responsive, dynamic and high integrity entity.
“High on our agenda is to hasten the pace of development and progress of every community in the state,” he assured in his message in the souvenir programme book for GPS launch at the State Indoor Stadium in Petra Jaya on Jan 19.
Indeed, GPS would be a perfect platform to ensure Sarawak could aggressively move forward and achieve its mission of becoming a developed state in various fields, he said.
According to him, GPS is an important platform for cooperation between the state and federal governments on the Malaysia Agreement 1963 and Federal Constitution.
Johari expressed gratitude to all concerned particularly the multi-racial community of Sarawak who had given their strong support in ensuring GPS would remain the people’s choice.
PBB, SUPP, PRS and PDP formed GPS after they unanimously decided to quit Barisan Nasional (BN) when the coalition failed to retain control of the federal government after 55 years in power during the last 14th general election.
