By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, May 16: Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said internal division within Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) would only hinder progress, stressing that constant caution over internal politics would distract leaders from focusing on development.
He said unity among GPS component parties remains the key reason Sarawak has been able to maintain political stability and push forward with its development agenda.
“I’m brave enough because the people are behind me through GPS – together with Progressive Democratic Party (PDP), Sarawak United Peoples’ Party (SUPP), Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS) and Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB).
“Otherwise, if we are divided, we cannot move forward because we are too busy watching our backs. We are only looking behind all the time, and so we do not see what is in front of us because we are afraid of being stepped from behind,” he said when speaking during the PDP’s Triennial General Assembly (TGA) 2026 held in Sibu today.
An audio recording of his speech was later shared with DayakDaily.
Abang Johari, who is also GPS chairman, further said Sarawak’s strong fiscal position had enabled the State to implement key initiatives, including free tertiary education for eligible Sarawakians.
According to him, Sarawak’s improved revenue was the result of bold but calculated policy decisions, including legal action involving Petroliam Nasional Berhad (PETRONAS).
He said Sarawak acted based on its legal rights over oil and gas resources, adding that State revenue had increased from RM6 billion to RM14 billion.
Beyond governance and the economy, the Premier also highlighted Sarawak’s progress in sports, saying performance in football and athletics was improving.
“Fortunately, Kuching City FC is improving. We are heading to the final against Johor. Football is also improving fast,” he said.
Abang Johari added that Sarawak was also aiming to maintain its strong performance in the upcoming Malaysia Games (SUKMA) in Selangor.
“Our economy is growing, our sports are improving, and we are the defending SUKMA champions. I hope you will be champions again at the SUKMA Games in Selangor,” he emphasised. — DayakDaily
