KUCHING: Selangau’s newly-elected Member of Parliament, Baru Bian (pic) said he was humbled by the May 9 winning with a 486 vote-majority against BN-PRS candidate, Rita Insol.
“This victory has proven several points. Firstly, it has proven our critics wrong. Many had said that the Dayak constituencies are the fixed deposit of BN and that they can be easily bought. We have shown that the political tsunami has reached the heartland of Borneo in Selangau.
“Rural Sarawak is maturing in politics and the people have shown an impressive understanding of what is happening in the country.
“The people of Selangau reminded me so much of the people of Ba’Kelalan. They are able to understand and appreciate political development and have displayed an incredible zest for change, to be part of the awakening that has been happening across the country, and to make a difference to the political landscape of Malaysia.
“Everywhere I went, the response was so positive. People were excited, and so eager to hear our messages and the promises of Pakatan Harapan.
“The support and assurance they gave was very meaningful to me, being a non-local offering myself to them as their MP,” he said.
Baru Bian also pointed out that many people, especially those on the BN side, have said that NCR land issues are no longer relevant.
However, it has been proven that NCR issues are still pertinent and discussed by the people with great passion. The people do not trust the BN government to safeguard the ownership of their lands.
Also, the infrastructure and basic amenities in Selangau need much improvement. They are far behind in terms of development and have lost hope in the authorities to raise their living standards.
“I wish to also make special mention of the outstanding young people of Selangau. The popular belief that young people are not interested in politics is not true of those from Selangau.
“I met so many of them who came back to Selangau to move on the ground to convince their parents and elders to embrace change and vote for a different government. This is a victory for them, and it must be an inspiration to them that their efforts have borne fruit in this excellent way.
“I wish to thank my party workers, friends, family members and sympathisers who have worked hard and long hours during the campaign period, organising my events and movements, and for their outstanding support. Truly, I could not have done it without them,” he added.
Baru Bian who is Sarawak PKR chief said he was also proud to learn that his comrades in Saratok and Puncak Borneo have won.
