The election atmosphere in Sarawak is calm and under control even though rival parties have their own ways of addressing issues brought up by voters. This is because the candidates in Sarawak are ethical.
Every candidate tries hard to articulate his/her party’s manifesto and fight for the party’s cornerstones. No candidates engage in “district infiltration” or extreme campaigning. They work hard to put up flags, billboards and posters on the streets of every urban centre and even rural neighbourhoods. They engage in friendly events, roadshows/walkabouts, discussions and impromptu face-to-face interactions with voters.
In their bids to influence the opinions of voters, many also resort to social media platforms.
Nevertheless, on November 19, do expect surprising election results in the hot seats of Saratok, Julau, Puncak Borneo, Miri, Sibu and Mas Gading.
Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg recently revealed that GPS had begun to attract the interest of other political parties.
Many Sarawakians found his analogy between Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) and men chasing after beautiful ladies refreshing, interesting and humorous.
Abang Johari said, “When something is attractive, everyone wants it. People have made proposals, but we’ll observe first. Like folks in love. Simply in love, but not yet engaged. Because even engagements can end in the future. (‘Dah nama orang kacak semua orang ngagak. Ada tapi kita nanggalah. Nya kedak bergerek, belum ada kata putus. Tapi, gerek jak sikda tunang sebab tunang boleh jadi putus juak kelak’.).
GPS, a coalition of four local parties in Sarawak, has succeeded in not only touching the hearts of Sarawakians, but also the hearts of other political parties. Why did the winds begin to change path? What entices parties to court GPS?
I think it is due to various factors.
The first factor is the principle of unity and understanding emphasised by all GPS members. This is the essence of leadership by example. A competent leader will inspire competent followers. Democracy is practised and together, the members come to an agreement and their fight matches the predetermined rhythm.
The second factor is GPS’ unrelenting fight for the people and the state’s rights under the Malaysia Agreement (MA63)
The premier has stated, “Sarawak first, this is our battle.” Abang Johari also stated that he would demand from the federal government the remaining three matters stipulated in MA63, namely, the distribution of the review formula for Special Grants under Article 112D of the Federal Constitution, administration from the perspective of the Sarawak Constitutional Court, and the recognition of the technical department as a department that will implement the federal government’s projects in Sarawak.
The third factor is GPS’ ability to become a “major voice” in parliament after the 15th general election (GE15). Sarawak voters are beginning to comprehend the limitations placed on their rights by the federal government. (‘Apa yang kita pun, mesti di ambik balit’) Whatever we have must be returned. This is how Sarawakians feel now.
Slowly but surely, Sarawakians have begun to appreciate GPS’ fight for the state’s rights under MA63. That is why the winds of support are already beginning to blow towards GPS and why it is being courted by other parties.
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** Dr Nur Aida Kipli (PhD) is a senior lecturer at Universiti Teknologi MARA, Kota Samarahan, Sarawak.
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DISCLAIMER
The views expressed here are those of the analyst and do not necessarily represent the views of New Sarawak Tribune.
