KUCHING: The collaboration and possible merger between the Progressive Democratic Party (PDP) and Parti Sarawak Bersatu (PSB) have sparked concerns for the Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP), while other Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) components, namely Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) and Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS), may not be as affected.
Following the loss of Dudong to PDP president Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing in the 12th state polls in 2021, SUPP now faces the risk of potentially relinquishing two more traditional seats – Engkili and Bawang Assan – currently held by PSB if the merger between PDP and PSB materialises in the future.
Political analyst Professor Dr Novel Lyndon acknowledged that ironing out these issues would be crucial. However, it is still too early to draw conclusions from the memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed between PDP and PSB in Kuala Lumpur on July 13.
From a political perspective, he noted that such a collaboration or potential merger would undoubtedly strengthen GPS, providing three additional seats or support from PSB. This would increase GPS’ total seats to 79 out of the 82 state seats in Sarawak.
Nevertheless, he pointed out that the MoU could also signify a GPS-friendly stance from PSB, particularly at the federal level, under a unity government. It does not necessarily imply that PSB will join GPS as a member.
Although the cooperation between the two parties reflects the current political dynamics where unexpected alliances can form, it is important to remember that PSB went against GPS, including PDP, in the previous state polls.
“Therefore, it may not be easy for all GPS leaders, especially SUPP, to fully agree and accept PSB into the coalition, as their main concern lies with the ‘traditional seats’ allocated to them during state elections,” Prof Novel stated.
He also highlighted that PSB president Datuk Seri Wong Soon Koh is a former SUPP leader, making PSB appear as a splinter party from SUPP.
Regarding the announcement made in Kuala Lumpur instead of Sarawak, he suggested that both parties aimed to ensure a neutral location free from partisan political interference. Additionally, the choice of Kuala Lumpur could symbolise support for the federal Unity Government.
On the other hand, political scientist Professor Datuk Dr Jayum Jawan from Universiti Putra Malaysia believed that Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg had been informed about the MoU in advance.
“Nothing moves without Abang Johari’s green light. What more can be said about a GPS component seeking to unite with an opposition that went against GPS in the previous elections?” he remarked.
Prof Jayum added that Tiong has little to lose by working with PSB, as the latter possesses seats that could strengthen PDP and potentially secure more seats for the future, which would then be claimed by PDP.
“Undoubtedly, SUPP leaders and members will not be pleased, and the party president (Datuk Seri Dr Sim Kui Hian) must take action. Otherwise, the party will continue to lose its hold on more traditional seats,” he concluded.
