By Karen Bong
KUCHING, April 19: Progressive Democratic Party (PDP) president Dato Sri Tiong King Sing today reiterated calls to uphold the spirit of cooperation within Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS), stressing the need for respect, trust and adherence to collectively agreed processes in the appointment of community leaders and village chiefs (KMKK) in PDP areas to ensure the confidence of all component parties is preserved.
Tiong, who is also Minister of Tourism, Art and Culture, said feedback from the grassroots indicates concerns over certain appointment processes and implementation at the community level.
“These issues may seem small, but they are actually very important because they involve the people’s trust in our system,” he said when addressing the GPS Convention 2026 held at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK).
Tiong pointed out that there have been “unfavourable developments” in the selection of KMKK in PDP areas, including alleged behind-the-scenes manoeuvres where minority views overturn majority decisions.
He claimed such situations were not observed in areas represented by other component parties such as Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB), Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS) and Sarawak United Peoples’ Party (SUPP).
“We are the ones who are often sidelined,” he said, referring to PDP-held constituencies.
Despite raising the issue, Tiong emphasised that PDP remains committed to the coalition framework and is not seeking confrontation.
“We believe in the system and governance in place. What I am saying today does not mean PDP wants to confront anyone, but rather we want to defend the foundation of our cooperation in GPS,” he said.
He added that speaking the truth, even when uncomfortable, is necessary to strengthen the coalition.
Looking ahead, Tiong stressed the importance of ensuring that all agreed processes are implemented consistently to maintain trust among component parties.
“This is not about any particular party. It is about strengthening the system that we have built together and ensuring every party works in that same spirit,” he said.
As leaders within GPS, he said all parties share the responsibility of ensuring the coalition remains strong, credible and trusted.
“Trust is not automatic. It must be earned, and re-earned, again and again. This is not a destination, but a long journey,” he added. — DayakDaily
