By Chris Bishop and Karen Bong
KUCHING, Dec 8: For the first time in Sarawak’s election history, Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) with its local-based component parties will be contesting using its own label without the intervention and influence of parties from Peninsula Malaysia.
GPS chairman Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg emphasised that the coalition is always ready to face an election because it has an excellent track record.
“As a responsible government, GPS is not just waiting for elections to implement various initiatives and development projects to protect the fate and advance the socio-economic development of the people of Sarawak.
“GPS has fulfilled its responsibilities and duties to bring development in Sarawak to continue the mandate given by the people in the last election.
“This is evidenced by the success we have achieved in various sectors, especially in socio-economic development, the provision of basic and social infrastructure facilities as well as safeguarding the welfare of all Sarawakians,” he said when launching the GPS Manifesto at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) here tonight.
Following the leadership crisis at the Federal level in 2018, Abang Johari said the State leadership has taken very drastic and bold steps by establishing GPS on June 12, 2018.
He added that the GPS coalition comprising Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB), Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS), Sarawak United Peoples’ Party (SUPP) and Progressive Democratic Party (PDP) is a superior local-based political party that represents all walks of life in Sarawak.
“GPS has successfully governed Sarawak according to its own mould and can make decisions without having to refer to any component parties at the Federal level.
“GPS is the only and the best platform for the people of Sarawak who want continuous development in a stable political environment and the people can live in harmony, peace and with respect for one another among the diverse races and religions,” he said.
Sarawak, Abang Johari reiterated, needs a strong and united coalition of Sarawak-based political parties to fight for the people without being controlled and influenced by outside political parties.
Throughout 58 years since Independence through the formation of Malaysia, the Chief Minister pointed out that Sarawak has overcome various challenges along the political journey at the State and Federal levels.
“The political experience of more than half a century has made us more mature,” he added. — DayakDaily
