By Lynch Cowan & Natasha Jee
KUCHING: The presence of some 3,000 people to witness the launch of Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) Zone 4B reflected the strong support of the Serian community to GPS.
For that Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg thanked the crowd for their support to the coalition party.
“I want to take this opportunity to thank the Bidayuh leaders who have long contributed to the development of the Bidayuh community and to the state’s development,” he said during the launch of GPS for Zone 4B at Balai Tayung Langui, Kampung Pichin, Serian, yesterday.
He added that the GPS government would continue the efforts of previous leaders to ensure the state develops and progress further.
The GPS Zone 4B comprises N20 Tarat, N21 Tebedu, N22 Kedup, N23 Bukit Semuja, and P199 Serian.
Meanwhile, New Sarawak Tribune managed to speak to a few attendees of the event yesterday.
Francis Linjas, 70, from Kedup, said the present government has ensured that there is continuous development.
“GPS and our chief minister are very good. They do not promise projects for the sake of campaigning but are sincere in helping and want to development Serian,” he said.
Nelson Ranseng, 44, from Balai Ringin, said only GPS could bring Sarawak to progress further.
“Outsiders (non-Sarawak based parties) don’t understand our culture, but GPS does. What is important is that Sarawak is ruled by local parties.
“They (outsiders) say they care about us, but they take away our resources, and if they were to take over, it will be worse,” he said.
Nelson hoped that the people in the state would give their full support to GPS especially under the leadership of Abang Johari.
Hassharina Hussaini, 24, from Kampung Lintang Baru, said she is glad GPS is concerned with the wants and needs of the people especially in the rural areas.
“We see there are many areas that still need basis amenities such as electricity and clean water supplies. And I believe the GPS government can expedite this development for us,” she said.
Hassharina also hoped that dilapidated schools in the rural areas can be repaired as soon as possible because the children need good facilities and quality education.
Lily Bakat, 24, from Kampung Keranji Baroh, said with the formation of GPS, it is a new hope for the people as it can further improve their living standard.
“As a youth, I want to see Sarawak moves forward and not behind anymore. I trust GPS can deliver, and I call on other youths to give their full support to GPS so that it can develop the state further.”
