KUCHING: Padungan community leader Kapitan Lucas Yong has called for a transparent and fair process, free from external interference or manipulation as Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) Kuching branch prepares for its elections on Nov 10.
In a recent interview, he lashed out at certain individuals trying to disrupt unity within the branch.
“As the leader of the Padungan community, I firmly support the Kuching branch and condemn the actions of those who smear the branch leadership, spread rumours, and try to sow division for personal gain,” he said.
Having been a party member for over 20 years, Yong took a brief hiatus from the Kuching branch for career reasons, returning two years ago with a renewed commitment to serve the community.
He highlighted the significant progress the branch has made, crediting the influx of passionate young professionals who bring new perspectives and energy.
However, Yong expressed regret over the actions of challengers who, despite claiming to advocate for change, resort to unethical tactics that mislead and divide party members.
These actions, he noted, tarnish the hard-earned image built by their predecessors.
He fsaid that under the current chairperson’s leadership, the Kuching branch has been cultivating a new generation of young talents, working together to build a solid foundation for the party’s future state elections.
He questioned why some challengers, claiming to support change, are abandoning these responsible young individuals in favour of spreading rumours and provocations.
Meanwhile, Jong Yean Pin, a dedicated member of SUPP for over 20 years, stressed the importance of stability in leadership for long-term strategic planning within the Kuching branch.
He emphasised the need for continuity to ensure lasting success.
“As the Chinese proverb says, ‘One generation plants a tree; the next sits in its shade.’ We must build upon the hard work of our predecessors,” he remarked.
Jong called on all members of the Kuching branch to actively participate in the upcoming 29th triennial general meeting on Nov 10, underscoring the importance of unity within the branch.
“A stable leadership team is essential for us to move forward and make progress in a strategic direction,” he added.
He reaffirmed his commitment to serving the people of Sarawak and contributing to the party’s continued mission.
Jong also encouraged members to face challenges with courage, integrity, and dedication as they strive to serve the community.
Chai Mian Nyen, a candidate for the position of Women’s chairperson in the Kuching branch, emphasised that loyalty to the party and dedication to serving the people are core responsibilities of party members.
She also highlighted the significant roles modern women must undertake in various fields, including national development, the green economy, new energy, and artificial intelligence.
“These are not just trends but vital responsibilities for our time,” she said.
If elected, Chai promised to lead the Women’s group with a courageous and innovative approach, focusing on practical efforts to serve both the party and society.
A young member of SUPP Kuching Nicholas Wung has announced his candidacy for Youth leader in the upcoming branch elections.
Drawing on his education in Confucian values, he believes that the Kuching branch has significant potential to empower politically ambitious youth.
Wung stressed the importance of gradual, systematic reforms led by young members.
“If elected, I will guide our new young team toward a positive and progressive direction, always respecting our traditions of benevolence, righteousness, and trust,” he asserted.
Acknowledging the invaluable experience of the party’s elders, he expressed his commitment to learning from them, even if younger members may not always agree with their decisions.
“We are not in their position, and perhaps their decisions were the most appropriate given the context of their time,” he said.
With a strong vision for the future, he is determined to lead the youth wing toward a positive and progressive path.
