By Amanda L
KUCHING, Apr 19: The Sarawak government remains uncertain whether the delineation process for the 17 new State seats can be finalised in time for the next State election as the process falls under the jurisdiction of the Election Commission (EC), Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg says.
He said the State government has conveyed the matter to the commission and is awaiting updates on the status of the delineation exercise, which could increase the number of seats in the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUS) from 82 to 99 if completed.
“The status of the delineation for the additional 17 seats is Premier: Uncertain if 17-seat delineation can be completed before S’wak polls, process depends on EC timeline with the Election Commission. We have informed them about it, but whether it can be completed in time, that we do not know,” he told reporters at a press conference after the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) Convention 2026 at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK), today.
He noted that the timeline is becoming tight as the calendar approaches May, raising questions over whether the expanded number of seats could be used in the coming polls.
“If the process can be completed in time, then perhaps the election could be held with 99 seats. If not, it may still proceed with the existing 82 seats,” he added.
Abang Johari emphasised that the State government cannot independently extend or implement the additional seats, as any change to electoral boundaries must be carried out through the constitutional process overseen by the Election Commission.
“We do not have the power to extend or implement it ourselves. Elections must follow the proper process,” he stressed.
The proposed delineation exercise would add 17 new constituencies to the DUS if approved and implemented. — DayakDaily
