By Amanda L
KUCHING, May 16: Progressive Democratic Party (PDP) president Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing has warned that instances of bullying and incooperative behaviour by one party within the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) coalition will only disrupt efforts to stabilise relations and could eventually lead to divisions among component parties.
Speaking at PDP’s Triennial General Assembly (TGA) 2026 held here today, he stressed that PDP would not tolerate any party within the coalition seeking to “belittle or undermine” its role, insisting that cooperation within GPS must be grounded in consensus, power-sharing and mutual respect.
“We will not allow any party within the coalition to belittle, undermine or practise a bullying culture against others,” he said. An audio recording of his speech was later shared with DayakDaily.
Although he did not identify the party involved, Tiong pointed to the presence of “one party” within GPS that appeared to be displaying such behaviour, warning that it could strain relations and weaken coalition unity if left unchecked.
He cautioned that such conduct risked creating divisions among component parties at a time when GPS should be strengthening internal cooperation ahead of the next State election.
Despite the pointed criticism, he reaffirmed PDP’s continued commitment to GPS and its support for Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, reiterating that political stability remains central to the State’s development agenda.
“Unity is our strength, but unity must come with justice,” he added.
Beyond coalition dynamics, he signalled PDP’s growing confidence within GPS, noting that the party no longer intended to remain “just spectators” but instead sought a more influential role in shaping key decisions.
“We want to be decision-makers. We want every decision to reflect the current political reality and the strength we have today,” he emphasised.
He also highlighted PDP’s expanding support base, with membership now reaching 250,000 following the entry of former Parti Sarawak Bersatu (PSB) members in 2024, describing it as clear evidence of growing public confidence in the party.
Turning to internal discipline, Tiong urged members to remain humble and people-focused, cautioning against arrogance and an excessive focus on positions and power.
“Never forget the grassroots. Any party, whether big or small, can fall at any time if it forgets what it is fighting for,” he reminded party members.
Looking ahead to the next State election, he called on PDP members to remain united and fully prepared to defend all seats currently held by the party, stressing that its elected representatives had earned continued public trust through service. — DayakDaily
