By Christine T
KUCHING, Nov 2: Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) will not entertain electoral collaboration with Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR), Democratic Action Party (DAP) or other Peninsular-based parties in the coming Sarawak election, with the coalition determined to contest all 82 State seats on its own.
GPS chief spokesperson Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said any proposal for collaboration is too late, stressing that the coalition will continue to regard these parties as opponents at the State level despite their working relationship with GPS in the federal government.
“Well, the Premier (Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg) has already mentioned that we will contest all 82 seats in Sarawak outside of GPS,” he said.
He said Sarawak’s political landscape differs from the federal level, where cooperation between parties did not automatically translate into electoral partnerships in the State.
“That is a federal matter. Here in the State, we only have GPS and the opposition.
“So, if PKR says it wants to collaborate, it is a bit too late for that. We will still treat you as the opposition,” he said during a press conference on the Borneo Indigenous Festival at the Mulu Room, Baitulmakmur II Building here today.
Abdul Karim stressed that GPS would stand on its own, pointing out that the coalition already comprised four Sarawak-based parties—Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB), Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS), Progressive Democratic Party (PDP), and Sarawak United Peoples’ Party (SUPP)—united under the principle of ‘Sarawak First’.
He also questioned the prospect of Sarawak relying on parties headquartered in Peninsular Malaysia, saying major decisions affecting the State could ultimately require approval from their national leadership.
“PKR is a national party based in Peninsular Malaysia, with its headquarters in Kuala Lumpur. If the party were to win, important decisions concerning Sarawak would have to be referred to Kuala Lumpur first. That is not the kind of arrangement we want.
“The same goes for DAP. Why should we go through such layers when we have our own Sarawak parties that can make decisions here for the good and well-being of the people?” he said.
He maintained that GPS was better positioned to make decisions locally without seeking approval from party headquarters outside Sarawak.
Abdul Karim also made clear that the position extended beyond PKR and DAP, including other national parties such as PAS, Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (Bersatu), and Amanah.
“Whether it is PKR, PAS or DAP, do not think about collaboration. If you want, contest in the election. That is all. Let the people of Sarawak decide,” he said. — DayakDaily
