By Amanda L
KUCHING, Mar 30: Democratic Action Party (DAP) Sarawak chairman Chong Chieng Jen has criticised a purported leaked document detailing the proposed creation and distribution of 17 new Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUS) seats as ‘unfair,’ saying the party has formally conveyed its objections to the Election Commission (EC) and will oppose the proposal if it proceeds.
He claimed concerns over wide disparities in voter numbers which undermines the principle of proportionate representation.
“Equal representation across constituencies is essential for a fair electoral system,” he told reporters after a joint press conference on the SPM Excellent Reward Scheme held at DAP Sarawak Headquarters, today.
He explained that with Sarawak’s estimated two million voters and a proposed 99–100 State seats, each constituency should average roughly 20,000 voters. Allowing a 30 per cent variation would make 15,000–25,000 voters per seat reasonable, he added.
Chong cited the proposed new Opar constituency with about 10,000 voters while Senadin would have around 70,000, illustrating the uneven distribution of voters.
“Kuching deserves additional seats. While the city has more than 100,000 voters, it would receive none under the current proposal, whereas Petra Jaya, with a similar voter population of 100,000 to 110,000, is proposed to gain two extra seats,” he said.
Chong referenced a leaked 98-slide presentation suggesting Sarawak’s State seats could increase from 82 to 99. While the document’s authenticity has not been independently verified, he said it reinforces concerns over the fairness of the proposed delineation.
He concluded by outlining the redelineation process, noting that the commission will review public feedback, revise the proposal if necessary, and submit a final version to Parliament, where at least 112 MPs must vote in favour for approval. — DayakDaily
