KUCHING: Festive seasons are a time of warmth, joy, and togetherness, where families and friends reunite to celebrate cherished traditions and strengthen bonds.
This Chinese New Year, Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, along with other state leaders, took time from their busy schedules to visit open houses, including the residence of former Parti Sarawak Bersatu (PSB) president Datuk Seri Wong Soon Koh.
The visit came amidst a significant political development in Sarawak which took place in April last year where PSB was officially dissolved, with over 80,000 of its members accepted en bloc into the Progressive Democratic Party (PDP) – a component party of Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS).
The negotiations were spearheaded by PDP deputy president Datuk Henry Harry Jinep, whose leadership was instrumental in ensuring a smooth transition.
Tasked with navigating the complexities of merging two political entities, he played a crucial role in facilitating discussions, addressing concerns, and fostering consensus among key stakeholders.
With the goal of preserving unity and ensuring the betterment of Sarawakians driving the decision to work together, Henry’s coordination efforts helped lay the foundation for a seamless integration.
Thanks to these extensive efforts behind the scenes, political parties that were once separate have now unified under GPS, further strengthening the coalition’s cohesion and influence.
PDP president Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing had described the merger as the beginning of a new chapter of shared goals and stronger Sarawakian brotherhood.
The merger was made possible through the support of GPS leaders, paving the way for enhanced cooperation and a stronger commitment to bringing meaningful progress to Sarawakians.
For the record, PSB won four state seats —Bawang Assan, Engkilili, Ba’Kelalan and Batu Lintang — during the 12th Sarawak state election in 2021.
GPS, through its component parties — Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB), Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP), Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS), and PDP — secured 76 out of 82 seats in the election.
With this development, GPS now holds 80 state seats with only two opposition seats from the Democratic Action Party (DAP).
PSB’s integration into GPS via PDP is expected to further strengthen the coalition’s position in state governance.
This move aligns with GPS’ broader vision of a united political front dedicated to championing Sarawak’s rights, autonomy, and the well-being of its people.
