KUCHING: The recent political development in Sarawak has further solidified the narrative that splinter parties typically struggle to maintain its longevity and will seek dominant political parties to ensure their relevance.
Political analyst Dr Ammar Redza Ahmad Rizal said this is evident through the move made by Parti Sarawak Bersatu (PSB) to form a collaboration with Progressive Democratic Party (PDP).
“In my view, this is one of the ways for PSB’s chief Datuk Seri Wong Soon Koh to maintain the party’s relevance as well as taking into consideration their poor performance during the previous state election,” he said today.
At the same time, Ammar said the collaboration could also be interpreted as PDP’s move of trying to further strengthen its position and influence in Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS).
“With this combination, PDP can further strengthen its leadership, especially along the “belt” from Sarikei to Bintulu. When PDP dominates the influence around this belt and can even go as far as Limbang and Lawas, it will ensure its presence and relevance in the GPS remains important,” he said.
He also pointed out that it is unlikely that PDP would have agreed to this collaboration without perceiving any benefits.
“The political arena is a platform where players strategically maneuver, and alliances are subject to change. Currently, GPS enjoys a high level of stability, holding the majority of seats in the State Legislative Assembly (DUN).
“They also command a significant number of federal ministers, including a Deputy Prime Minister. However, the success of GPS in capitalising on its current advantageous position will determine the stability of their majority in the future.
“If GPS can sustain its brilliance, its influence is likely to continue growing in the long term,” he added.
