By Karen Bong
KUCHING, May 21: Sarawak United Peoples’ Party (SUPP) has shattered the myth that Bintulu’s Tanjong Batu constituency was a stronghold of the Democratic Action Party (DAP) after wresting the seat back in the 12th Sarawak Election (PRN12) last December.
Not only that, but SUPP also wrestled back another five seats (Kota Sentosa, Opar, Bukit Assek, Pelawan and Pujut), while retaining seven seats (Batu Kawah, Batu Kitang, Repok, Meradong, Piasau, Simanggang and Senadin).
Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg emphasised that SUPP’s outstanding performance in PRN12 showed that the party is sincere and has regained the people’s confidence.
“We won the election with a massive majority. But, what is so sweet is that SUPP ‘sapu semua’ (made a clean sweep) in Miri — taking back Pujut and (retaining) Senadin and Piasau.
“And then, we also took back Bintulu. People say Tanjong Batu is strong like a rock. But SUPP went in, and the rock was shattered. And, of course, swept over Sibu,” he said to rousing cheers and applause from the floor.
He highlighted this when officiating at the SUPP 25th Triennial Delegates Conference (TDC) 2022 held at the party’s headquarters today, attended by its top leadership and members.
Abang Johari pointed out that Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) has done well. Its policies are clear, inclusive, and forward-looking, including taking care of Chinese education and long-term urban development.
He pledged that the Sarawak government would develop Bukit Assek with a long-term plan. Once finalised, the construction sector and services sector will be revitalised.
“We don’t want to revitalise all and not in bits and pieces here and there to have a new township in Sibu.
“Even the mayor (Adam Yii) can win Miri. We build the town hall without boasting about it. I gave him my promise, and now it is there. The private sector is returning to Miri as Shell is moving back there. With better income, your domestic consumption and economy will grow,” he said.
Abang Johari emphasised that urban areas in Kuching will not be neglected because “you cannot let people stay in Ban Hock Road like that”, as the urban centres and major townships across Sarawak needed to be revitalised and modernised.
He stressed that unity in Sarawak is important, and he was glad it has been reflected in SUPP and will augur well for the future.
“I was made to understand that there is a mix of new and old leaders in SUPP that will bring about change and face the political and economic challenges ahead of Sarawak and our society. I must congratulate SUPP on that.
“All four GPS component parties (SUPP, Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Sarawak, Parti Rakyat Sarawak and Progressive Democratic Party) are united, and we will defend Sarawak for the future of Sarawakians.
“And God willing, this parliamentary election, we will work together in unity and, if possible, win all the 31 seats we will be contesting,” he added.
SUPP president, who is also Deputy Premier, Dato Sri Dr Sim Kui Hian and all SUPP lawmakers from throughout Sarawak were present. — DayakDaily
