KUCHING: The Sarawak government has been urged to create an official position for the leader of the opposition in the State Legislative Assembly (DUN), a structure that mirrors the one in Parliament.
Stampin MP Chong Chieng Jen has called for this change to bolster the opposition’s role in scrutinising and balancing state governance.
“Unlike Parliament, the Sarawak DUN lacks a formal position for the leader of the opposition. This role in Parliament comes with support like assistants and secretaries, which is absent in the DUN,” he said after receiving the Honorary Officer Appointment Certificate from the Civil Defence Force (APM) at the Civil Defence District Office here today (May 3).
He said that enhancing the administrative structure within the DUN was essential for more effective oversight and governance balance.
Chong also noted that the absence of such a role is unique to the Sarawak DUN, pointing out that other states like Selangor and Penang already have similar provisions.
Additionally, Chong touched on recent political developments, including the merger of Parti Sarawak Bersatu (PSB), previously an opposition party, with the Progressive Democratic Party (PDP). He highlighted that this merger had reduced the opposition’s representation in the state to just two members.
“As part of the federal government, we remain dedicated to fulfilling our responsibilities,” he added.
