There is every reason for Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) – the state’s ruling coalition to put up a good showing in the 15th general election.
GPS – made up of Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB), Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP), Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS) and Progressive Democratic Party (PDP) will be contesting in all 31 parliamentary seats in Sarawak.
In the last Sarawak state election (PRN12), GPS was returned with an overwhelming mandate, winning 76 out 82 state seats in the legislature.
With the mandate, since the election, GPS has moved swiftly to introduce more people-centric initiatives as well as pushing and successfully facilitating the return of more state rights under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).
They have made the case for a louder voice in Parliament which would allow for more state rights to be reclaimed by a vocal Sarawak bloc.
GPS also stressed that better representation would allow laws and policies are drafted and passed to benefit Sarawak – in terms of its development, welfare and general wellbeing of its people.
Below are reasons why GPS must win all 31 seats in GE15, in the words of their leaders:
DATUK PATINGGI TAN SRI ABANG JOHARI TUN OPENG – PREMIER, PBB PRESIDENT AND GPS CHAIRMAN
“Sarawak needs a strong and united coalition of local-based parties to champion the plight of Sarawakians without the control and influence of any outside party.
“GPS is the only and best platform for the people of Sarawak who want continued development in a stable political environment and in which the people can live peacefully and harmoniously and with respect among various races and religions.
“We have implemented more than 100 “game changer” initiatives to boost Sarawak’s socio-economic development which has brought many benefits to its people.
“Support and vote for GPS for a stable, prosperous and glorious Sarawak, in order to make Sarawak Developed by 2030.”
DATUK SERI DR SIM KUI HIAN – DEPUTY PREMIER, SUPP PRESIDENT
“If we’re strong, we could do it – the restoration of eroded Sarawak rights. This parliamentary election is very important. We want to tell West Malaysia, how they can benefit from us.
“GPS’ mission is very clear, which is ‘Sarawak First’. Therefore, this coming election is important in determining the future of Sarawakians.
“We Sarawakians must strongly stay united and together, we fight for Sarawak’s rights and its future.
“Only with full mandate and power given by the people, can we negotiate to get back Sarawak’s rights.”
DATUK JOSEPH SALANG GANDUM, PRS PRESIDENT
“With a stable federal government, matters such as the development of the country will be improved, that is why we need to win big and form a stronger Sarawak bloc.
“In terms of reclaiming state rights under MA63, we must continue our efforts – this is to develop Sarawak and for it to be able to achieve the goal of being a developed and high-income state by 2030.
“For PRS, in GPS we are a big family, we must not think of PRS alone. The candidates fielded by PRS are GPS candidates. In that sense we must work hand in hand with other component parties.
“We must reciprocate in other areas where other GPS component parties are fielding their candidates – we must support these candidates similar to the support that we expect to get from them in areas that we are contesting.”
DATUK SERI TIONG KING SING, PDP PRESIDENT
“Sarawak must strive towards decentralisation of autonomy powers. These efforts must be done with the objective of “Sarawak First” for the benefit of the people of Sarawak.
“Matters involving the interests and rights of the people of Sarawak must be prioritised. Besides the economy and education, fields that the young generation are interested in, including sports must also benefit Sarawak.
“So too must subjects involving household income, employment opportunities and infrastructure development in Sarawak. We can no longer look at the past, but forge a new future aggressively for the good and progress of our beloved Sarawak.”
