By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Oct 14: Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS) vice president Datuk Liwan Lagang is optimistic that the party’s wise leadership will not let a noble and loyal leader like Datuk Snowdan Lawan slip away, following the latter’s announcement to withdraw from contesting in the deputy presidential race at the upcoming Triennial Delegates Conference (TDC).
“If I am given the chance to advise, I would tell the new leadership to look into this matter carefully,” Liwan said, expressing confidence that the incoming PRS leadership would recognise Snowdan’s contributions and dedication to the party.
Snowdan, who is currently PRS Youth chief, said his decision to withdraw was made with “good intention”, stressing that keeping PRS united as one family and avoiding cracks that could weaken Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) must take precedence over personal ambition.
“What I want to see, number one, is the unity of the party. We must not be divided. If there is a crack, it may affect GPS overall. I believe the top leaders will make wise decisions, especially concerning elected representatives, bringing them back into the Supreme Council because we want to be inclusive. As a family, we don’t want to leave anyone behind,” he told a press conference at the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts’ Office in Baitulmakmur Complex here today.
When asked if he had been promised a position after the TDC, Snowdan said he leaves the matter entirely to the new leadership.
“For me, that is not important. We are still one family. I give way for the sake of party unity and leave it to the new management of the party. Whether they want to appoint me or not, I leave it to the president and the new Supreme Council,” he said.
The four-term Balai Ringin assemblyman, who has been with PRS since 2006, explained that while his decision to step aside was made in the interest of unity and stability, democracy within the party remains intact.
“Even though it is an open contest, it’s our choice as candidates to decide whether to contest or withdraw. I have chosen my own path for the good and unity of the party. The party is above all,” he said.
Snowdan emphasised that a true leader’s duty is to unite, not divide. “A true leader does not create suppression but brings people together,” he said.
He added that as one of the five members of the party’s credential committee, comprising the president, deputy president, women chief, and youth chief, his withdrawal was made in accordance with the party’s constitution.
“We are empowered to decide on candidacies, including withdrawals, even at the 11th hour. I submitted my official withdrawal letter to the president yesterday (Oct 13) morning before the slot drawing was conducted, and the president has already announced my withdrawal,” he explained.
Snowdan reiterated that his move was meant to serve as an example of prioritising collective interest over individual pursuit. “I hope this will inspire others to do the same, but it’s their choice. We don’t force anyone,” he said.
He pointed out that the real challenge for PRS and GPS lies not within party contests, but in the political battles ahead. “The real test is not this TDC. It will be in 2026, when 17 new Sarawak Legislative Assembly seats will be created and contested. That’s when we must stand united and strong as one family under PRS and GPS,” he said. — DayakDaily
