By Karen Bong
KUCHING, June 4: Sarawak United Peoples’ Party (SUPP) president Dato Sri Sim Kui Hian hopes there will be no more “anai-anai” (termites) and infighting within the party that could jeopardise its chances when the 15th General Election (GE15) is called.
Instead, Dr Sim said party members should focus and work harder to keep the victorious momentum from the last Sarawak Election going into GE15 that is likely to be called anytime now.
“SUPP today is truly a ‘saati’ (united) party. We are no longer divided by regional fractions, we do not serve vested interest groups and there is no place for opportunists.
“But we have opportunities for anyone willing to serve with humility, hard work from 7am to 1am and humbleness,” he told the media after a simple ceremony to celebrate the 63rd anniversary of SUPP held at the party’s headquarters here today.
Reiterating the words of Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg that Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) is aiming to win all 31 seats in GE15 if possible, Dr Sim emphasised that Sarawak must win big as it gears up to take Sarawak into a golden era that is strong, prosperous and inclusive.
“GPS represents the best of Sarawak. We know what we are doing, we have our goals and the interests of Sarawak will always come first. So we must beef up preparation now as the future of Sarawak and rights under MA63 (Malaysia Agreement 1963) including health and education will very much depend on GE15.
“No one can stop Sarawak from achieving its goals unless we are divided. I want SUPP and all Sarawakians to be part of this success,” he said.
Moving ahead, the Deputy Premier called on all SUPP members to work harder as well as to start mentoring and guiding its Muda and Puteri given that the demographic of Sarawak is made up of mostly young people.
“While maintaining SUPP tradition, the small transition and renewal of SUPP has begun. Our Youth, Women and Veteran wings have been working closely together. I want to thank some of our members for giving way to new leaders and as a result, we have 23 new branch chairmen and secretaries in recent party elections. I truly treasure them for their leadership,” he said.
Dr Sim, who is also Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government, also expressed appreciation and thanks to all Sarawakians for their trust that has enabled SUPP to win 13 seats in the last State election, and thus giving SUPP another opportunity to continue with its 63 years of struggles.
“Today, we reiterate our pledge, commitment and spirit to pursue the aspirations, dreams and struggles set by our forefathers for the future of Sarawak and its people,” he added. — DayakDaily
