By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, March 21: Progressive Democratic Party senior vice-president Dato Sri Wong Soon Koh has urged Sarawakians to reject West Malaysian-based political parties in the next State election and give Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) their full support.
In a statement, Wong, who is Bawang Assan assemblyman, said that Sarawak faces a defining and daunting moment—claiming that political forces ‘from outside’ are seeking to expand their influence on Sarawak, which tests the people’s unity and resolve.
Citing ongoing talks on the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) and the PETRONAS-Petros discussions, he said that Sarawak’s strength depends on the people’s unity—which Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg is at the forefront of its efforts.
“He has been relentless in his mission to advance Sarawak’s interests. His leadership has already brought great benefits, and his efforts have resulted in major victories boosting Sarawak’s economy and strengthening our autonomy,” said Wong.
The former State opposition leader praised Abang Johari for pushing for greater autonomy in oil and gas agreements, as well as for initiating negotiations for autonomy in healthcare, education, infrastructure, and environmental policies within the boundaries of MA63.
“Yet, new challenges lie ahead. Malayan political parties are making strategic moves to gain a foothold in Sarawak. This is not simply about political expansion—it is an attempt to shift our political landscape, potentially bringing instability and uncertainty to our State.
“Now is the time for Sarawakians to stand together. We must strengthen our resolve, support our leaders, and send a clear message: Sarawak’s political future should be shaped by Sarawakians, not by external forces with their own agendas,” he said.
He added that now is when Sarawakians should set aside their differences and focus on keeping the State strong and independent in its decision-making, as well as stay vigilant against those seeking to undermine their unity for political gain.
He used the example of seats in the State, which are under West Malaysian parties, asking what has been done so far—as opposed to Abang Johari’s leadership, which has seen Sarawak securing new opportunities, a strengthened economy, and positioning itself as a leader in regional development.
“Say ‘no’ to outside interference. Say ‘no’ to Malayan political parties. Say ‘yes’ to GPS. Say ‘yes’ to our Premier—’yes’ to a strong and united Sarawak,” he said. — DayakDaily
