By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Nov 25: Sarawak United Peoples’ Party (SUPP) Youth Central has clarified that Dato Sri Tiong King Sing’s participation in several Pakatan Harapan (PH) campaign-related programmes in Sabah should not be construed as Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) involvement in the state’s election, stressing that Sarawak fully respects Sabah’s autonomy over its electoral process.
In a statement today, SUPP Youth noted circulating photos and comments of Tiong’s activities had given rise to speculation that GPS leaders were taking part in the 2025 Sabah State Election.
“As a component of GPS, SUPP Youth Central would like to clearly state that GPS has not issued any instructions for its leaders, members, or delegates to participate in the Sabah State Election,” it said.
It added that Tiong’s presence in Sabah was strictly in his personal capacity as the Federal Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, and not in relation to any role or mandate from GPS.
“Any remarks or activities by Dato Sri Tiong King Sing during the Sabah election period do not reflect GPS’s stance. GPS maintains a firm commitment to respecting Sabah’s autonomy and does not interfere in its electoral processes,” the statement emphasised.
SUPP Youth further said GPS prioritises maintaining strong inter-state relations and refrains from involvement in the internal political affairs of Sabah, making the clarification necessary to avoid misinterpretation.
Tiong, who is also Progressive Democratic Party (PDP) president, was recently seen attending several PH-linked programmes in Sabah, including one where he met an Iban community renowned for its cultural traditions and natural surroundings.
On Nov 23, Tiong posted on his social media about the tourism potential of Kampung Merotai Iban, highlighting its ability to offer authentic, immersive experiences that reflect Iban identity, stories, and resilience. He said that with strong support, the village could grow into a compelling tourism destination.
SUPP Youth concluded by reaffirming that GPS remains neutral and has no involvement in the 2025 Sabah State Election. — DayakDaily
