THE issue of rural and urban development in Sarawak has become the central focus of every election.
With an area approximately equivalent to Peninsular Malaysia and a population density of 2 million, Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) is committed to developing the nine regions of the state of Sarawak.
Starting with coastal areas, villages, towns, and cities, development programmes are intensified to improve the economy and living conditions of the Sarawakian people.
As a coalition of local parties, GPS is already familiar with the peculiarities and requirements of the entire population of Sarawak. The interests of each race and unplanned growth are taken seriously by party leaders and members in the representation region. Many development projects have been implemented and GPS will not end there.
As a political actor, GPS is deemed capable of satisfying the needs of the Sarawakians. In both election manifestos (state and general), the party has begun to win their hearts. With significant support from Sarawakians, GPS may get the mandate to carry out all its plans.
The demand for development in Sarawak is a result of population growth and the desire to enjoy better quality of life. Many facilities have been provided while others are in the process of being implemented and will be provided.
As a result of this growth process, Sarawakians have undergone a variety of living patterns and will experience positive changes. Infrastructure facilities and basic utilities, such as water supply, electricity, toilets, telephones, recreation areas and roadside entertainment, must be provided, along with other amenities.
Outside the cities and towns, the same emphasis and care should be devoted to achieving the same level of balance in the delivery of all services. During elections, the issue of the disparity in the level of development between urban and rural communities is frequently highlighted by opposition parties.
Rural development is generally categorised as still lacking and inadequately addressed. However, GPS’s track record of excellence has been proven by the effective implementation of initiatives despite the opposition parties’ numerous challenges and obstacles.
A comprehensive implementation that takes into account the diverse interests and needs of Sarawak’s races and protects the sensitivity of Sarawakians. This is what GPS does. The people trust and have faith in whatever it plans for their benefit.
Consequently, in this general election, GPS candidates must demonstrate their seriousness as capable and powerful political actors in order to speak up as representatives of the people in parliament.
Hopefully, the 15th general election will be favourable to GPS so that it can begin to fulfil the promises it listed in its manifesto.
