KUCHING: Datuk Seri Rohani Abdul Karim has described that “it is something normal” in politics to step down and give way to the young ones, after deciding not to defend her seat in Batang Lupar in the 15th general election (GE15).
Although she is not seeking re-election, she will continue working together with Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) candidate Mohamad Shafizan Kepli for Batang Lupar – to ensure that the election campaign machinery is fully prepared.
“Batang Lupar is one of GPS strongholds, so I am confident that GPS will be able to win the seat,” she told the reporters after GPS chairman Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg made the announcement on candidates for GE15 at the Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) headquarters here today.
Rohani also urged voters in Batang Lupar to come out and cast their votes on the polling day as Sarawak needs a strong representation in the Parliament.
“We need strong and stable leaders, not only in Sarawak but in Malaysia. God willing, GPS will be able to help in ensuring that the federal government is also strong and stable.”
“This is crucial because there are many matters like education and health which are under the purview of the federal government,’ she said.
Rohani expressed hopes that the new federal government will shoulder more responsibilities in bringing more mega development projects in Sarawak as it has been enshrined in the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).
“With various projects like the Batang Lupar bridge taken over by the state government, I do hope that the federal government will reimburse perhaps in terms of bringing more development projects in Sarawak,” she added.
For the record, Rohani has served four terms as MP for Batang Lupar since 2004 and she had previously been elected MP for Santubong three times from 1990 to 2004.
