By Karen Bong
KUCHING, June 4: Democratic Action Party (DAP) leaders may talk as if they can “fly or jump”, but in reality, their track record amounts to zero results, said Kota Sentosa assemblyman Wilfred Yap, warning Sarawakians not to place their trust in Peninsula-based parties that neither understand nor represent Sarawak’s true aspirations.
Speaking during the flag-raising ceremony in conjunction with the 66th anniversary of the Sarawak United Peoples’ Party (SUPP) at the party’s headquarters today, Yap launched a blistering critique of DAP and similar political entities from Peninsular Malaysia, arguing that their presence threatens to derail Sarawak’s progress and autonomy.
“Look at the Rocket (DAP). Every day, they mislead the public with empty promises. They talk about check and balance, but in the Sarawak Legislative Assembly, their contributions are zero.
“They don’t even understand the standing orders. If you don’t understand the rules, how can you lead?” he questioned.
He pointed out the stark lack of development in his own constituency under DAP’s prior administration.
“After 15 years under DAP, parts of Kota Sentosa still had dirt roads. If they can’t even fix small things, what big things can they achieve?” he said, invoking a Chinese proverb to underscore his point.
He cautioned Sarawakians not to follow the same trajectory as Sabah, which he said had fallen into political instability and stagnation due to interference by Malayan-based parties.
“Just look at the Pan Borneo Highway. Sarawak’s portion is 99 per cent complete, while Sabah’s side lags at just 30 per cent,” he noted.
Highlighting the Sarawak government’s achievements under Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, Yap pointed to the State’s RM14.2 billion revenue, major infrastructure developments, digital economy initiatives, and religious inclusivity through the RM1.1 billion allocation for Unit for Other Religions (Unifor).
“Compare that with Sabah. Now we are building our own new international airport, a new deep-sea port, digital infrastructure, free tertiary education — we have so many programmes. But compare that with Sabah and Peninsular Malaysia — do they have these?,” he asked.
He credited SUPP’s steady contributions over the past decade, noting that while the party does not shout for attention, it consistently delivers.
“In the past 10 years, our party’s performance — I won’t say it’s the best, but if we say we are number two, no one dares to claim they are number one.
“Sometimes it’s not about yelling and shouting outside. Sometimes it’s about getting things done from within and we must look at the results,” he said, paying tribute to Deputy Premier and SUPP president Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian.
Reaffirming SUPP’s identity as a multiracial party that unites Chinese, Malay, Dayak, Melanau and others under one Sarawakian agenda, Yap called on party comrades to strengthen grassroots efforts, reject divisive Peninsula narratives, and remain steadfast in defending the State’s autonomy.
“Sarawak must never walk that path. We must maintain our autonomy, and we must ensure that Sarawak’s voice is never silenced by outsiders.
“Comrades, the road ahead is not easy. But if we want our children and grandchildren to inherit a Sarawak that is developed, united, and respected, we must fight for it,” he said.
He called on party comrades to double down on community outreach, earn the people’s trust, and prepare for the battles ahead.
“In every election and every challenge, SUPP must stand tall — as the party that champions development, unity and Sarawak’s rights.”
“Let us continue to work as one team. We fight not for power, but for a brighter future for Sarawak. Together with Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg and through the Sarawak parties, SUPP will continue to deliver.
“As we have delivered, we will continue to defend. As we have defended, we will continue to build — a stronger, richer and more respected Sarawak, on our own terms,” he concluded. — DayakDaily
