MIRI: Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS) president Datuk Joseph Salang Gandum has dismissed claims that the party is losing relevance, asserting its enduring significance and the dedication of its members.
Salang’s remarks came in response to concerns over the party’s perceived decline during the launch of the PRS Marudi branch in Miri on Sunday night (Jan 5).
The new Marudi branch, chaired by Peter Sujar Chambai, has already attracted 1,208 registered members, reflecting what Salang described as the party’s grassroots strength.
Using a metaphor, he likened the situation to a tea bag’s strength only becoming apparent once it is immersed in water.
“Some say we lack new blood, but these assumptions are speculative. Only when a challenge arises can we truly assess the strength of our members,” Salang remarked.
He acknowledged perceptions of a shortfall in young members but emphasised that PRS fosters an environment where members can speak freely — albeit with reason and integrity, rather than for mere publicity.
Salang stressed that organisational success hinges on dedication and honesty, rather than brilliance alone.
“I would rather work with honest and dedicated individuals than those who are clever but reckless,” he said, adding that internal integration and unity remain vital for the party’s progress.
He also touched on the importance of leadership integrity, noting that divisive tactics or undermining others for personal gain would weaken the party.
“If necessary, I’d rather lose one problematic individual than risk losing five or six dedicated members,” he said.
Asked about the upcoming triennial delegates conference (TDC), Salang reaffirmed that all positions, including the presidency, remain open for contest.
However, he emphasised the role of collective wisdom in determining whether certain posts would be contested.
He elaborated on the scheduling challenges for the TDC, which typically coincides with the party’s anniversary in October.
The April 2022 TDC date was an exception due to Covid-19 disruptions and constraints from the Registrar of Societies (RoS).
The leadership, he said, prioritises what is best for the party rather than individual ambitions.
PRS currently represents 12 state constituencies, including Balai Ringin, Bukit Begunan, Batang Ai, and Kakus. Its traditional parliamentary seats include Sri Aman, Lubok Antu, Julau, Kanowit, Selangau, and Hulu Rajang.
The event was attended by PRS deputy president Datuk Majang Renggi, vice president and Deputy Digital Minister Datuk Wilson Ugak Kumbong, Marudi assemblyman Datuk Dr Penguang Manggil, and other prominent party leaders.
