By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Feb 13: Former Democratic Action Party (DAP) Sarawak member Abdul Aziz Isa Marindo has resigned from the party and is now seeking to join Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB), the backbone of the ruling Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) coalition.
Abdul Aziz, who contested the Batu Kitang seat under DAP’s banner in 2016 and 2021, confirmed with DayakDaily today that he officially submitted application to join PBB on Chinese New Year Eve (Jan 28), marking the end of his an 11-and-a-half-year affiliation with the party.
Once known for his fiery speeches during the 2016 state election campaign, the 36-year-old’s departure from DAP follows a three-year hiatus from politics after his defeat in the 2021 polls.
“Turning 36 this year feels like more than just another birthday, it’s a moment of reflection, renewal, and, if I may say, reinvention. Coincidentally, it is also the Year of the Snake, my birth sign, and as nature reminds us, a snake sheds its skin not for vanity but out of necessity for growth. As the old English saying goes, change is the only constant in life, and I believe this is the most fitting time for a fresh start,” he said.
Reflecting on his political journey, Abdul Aziz said he joined DAP in August 2013, driven by the “idealism of youth” and a belief that socialism was central to addressing political, economic, and social challenges.
However, his views evolved after spending the last four years in the corporate sector, which exposed him to the realities of foreign investments, trade, and financial technology, leading him to reassess his political stance.
“I came to realise that solutions don’t lie in abstract ideology but in pragmatic governance. The more I studied thriving economies, the clearer it became: conservatism, not socialism, provides the stability and prosperity Sarawak needs,” he explained.
Returning to Kuching in September last year, Abdul Aziz said he was struck by the transformation under Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg’s leadership, citing bold infrastructural projects, digital economy initiatives, and a clear vision for Sarawak’s future.
Having previously served under DAP, Abdul Aziz acknowledged the invaluable experience gained during his tenure. However, he sees his move to PBB not as a departure, but as an evolution in his political journey.
“Politics, at its core, has always been about service, not self-interest. My time in DAP was an enriching chapter: I learnt, I grew, and I contributed. But as the British wisely say, a change is as good as a rest; though, truth be told, I’ve never been one to rest for long. In PBB, I see not just a political party, but a platform where I can roll up my sleeves and make a meaningful impact for the people and Sarawak,” he added.
Citing the Latin proverb “tempora mutantur, nos et mutamur in illis” which means “times change, and we must change with them”, Abdul Aziz believes this transition is not merely a political shift but a reaffirmation of his dedication to Sarawak’s progress.
“This is not about personal ambition but about stepping into a role where I can serve more effectively. And if the Romans were right in saying ‘audaces fortuna iuvat’ which means ‘fortune favours the bold’. Then I hope this bold step allows me to contribute in ways that truly matter,” he added.
With this new chapter, Abdul Aziz Isa expressed optimism and look forward to working alongside his colleagues in PBB, bringing fresh perspectives and renewed energy to serve the people of Sarawak.
Aziz previously contested the Batu Kitang seat but was defeated by Sarawak United Peoples’ Party’s (SUPP) Dato Lo Khere Chiang, who won with a 1,840-vote majority in 2016. Lo retained the seat in 2021 with an even larger majority of 4,163 votes. — DayakDaily
