SIBU: Voters deserve elected officials who prioritise their well-being and address their concerns, rather than politicians who focus on power dynamics at the expense of the public’s betterment, says Robert Lau Hui Yew.
The Sarawak United People Party (SUPP) Bawang Assan Branch chairman said that while political expediency may seem attractive to some, it is crucial to consider the long-term implications for the welfare and representation of the people.
“If a merger was rooted in the desire to consolidate political power and influence, then it has inadvertently overshadowed the voices and concerns of the very constituents these parties are meant to serve.
“Instead of focusing on the needs and aspirations of the people, the merger has become a tactical manoeuvre aimed at boosting electoral prospects,” he said this when giving his thoughts on the topic “Mergers Driven by Political Expediency Are Unhealthy” at the start of a four-hour unity cruise organised by his branch with four other SUPP branches in Sibu Division on Aug 31.
Lau felt mergers founded on political expediency would lead to a loss of ideological clarity and diluted representation.
“The merging parties often bring together diverse groups with differing visions and goals, leading to internal strife and confusion.
Quoting a Chinese proverb “当局者迷，旁观者清” which could be loosely translated as “Those involved are bewildered, while those on the sidelines see clearly” Lau said it meant individuals immersed in a situation often struggle to maintain objectivity and clarity, while those who observe from a distance are better equipped to comprehend the larger picture.
“In such a case, how would that help the rakyat and how can such mergers be healthy?” he asked.
Lau said it was important to distinguish between political party mergers that prioritise expediency and those that genuinely seek to better serve the people.
“Mergers driven by a shared commitment to policy alignment, common values, and a dedication to improving the lives of citizens can lead to more effective governance. Such mergers can bring together diverse expertise and resources, allowing for innovative solutions to complex challenges,” he said.
Taking Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) as an example, he said although GPS was not a merger of parties but a coalition of parties, GPS came into existence for Sarawak and her people.
“And all can see this move to create a coalition of Sarawakian parties by the Premier of Sarawak has reaped handsome dividends for Sarawak and her people,” he stressed.
Stressing he wasn’t against mergers, only those that were done for unhealthy reasons, Lau said people-oriented mergers are those guided by the desire for the betterment of the people and not those that are for political expediency.
“A united coalition like GPS with a strong and clear vision can articulate policies and initiatives that address pressing issues, such as economic growth, social equality, and environmental sustainability.
“In these cases, it becomes a means to strengthen the coalition’s ability to deliver on its promises, rather than a calculated move for short-term electoral gains,” he said.
As far as SUPP Bawang Assan was concerned, the partnership forged by GPS components arose for a shared vision for the betterment of Sarawak and not one driven by political expediency.
As for whatsoever mergers the electorate has a right to know how any mergers will serve their best interests and contribute to the betterment of Sarawak as a whole, based on facts and not on eloquent political sound bites that waxes lyrical over political expediency.
Whether a political alliance can thrive when the participating parties have fundamentally different ideologies and priorities or whether it is a recipe for discontent, will be laid out for all to see in due course.
“There’s really not much point to keep talking about such things. The people have gotten sick and tired of it. I mean even politicians get sick and tired of it, so you can imagine just how tiresome it is for everyone,” he said.
