By Christine T
KUCHING, Nov 9: Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg’s ability to strengthen the State’s finances and channel revenue into development projects will help secure continued public support for Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) in the upcoming Sarawak Election 2026, says Deputy Minister for Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Abdul Rahman Ismail.
Abdul Rahman, also a Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) Supreme Council member and the incumbent for Bukit Kota, said Abang Johari’s leadership has shown his ability to generate revenue and ensure the State’s financial resources are channelled back to the people through development initiatives, particularly in rural areas.
“He works very hard, knows how to generate revenue and ensures that the money generated is channelled back to the people,” he said when met at the 21st Agricultural Institute of Sarawak Convocation Ceremony 2026 at Imperial Hotel Kuching.
Citing the Sarawak Budget 2027, Abdul Rahman said the State projected to record around RM15 billion in revenue next year.
He said a significant portion of the Budget was directed towards development, particularly basic infrastructure such as roads, bridges, electricity, and water supply, which remained important to communities, especially in rural areas.
He also expressed confidence that Sarawakians would continue supporting Abang Johari’s leadership, describing him as a leader who delivered on his promises rather than merely making announcements.
“He walks the talk. He does not just make promises without delivering; he practises what he preaches,” he said.
On the party’s election preparations, he said the party’s machinery at the branch level had been activated and was ready for the polls.
He said the party was now awaiting Abang Johari’s announcement on the candidates who would be fielded, adding that members would accept the Premier’s assessment and support whoever was selected.
He also noted that Abang Johari has hinted that four GPS candidates may be retained, namely Datuk Fazzrudin Abdul Rahman (Tupong), Datuk Ibrahim Baki (Satok), Datuk Hamzah Brahim (Stakan), and Datuk Martin Ben (Kedup).
The Election Commission has set November 28 for nomination day, followed by a 14-day campaigning period, with polling scheduled for December 12. — DayakDaily
