SPAOH, March 6, 2022 - Sarawakians, generally, trust Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) leaders more than the local leaders of the Malayan-based Opposition parties, Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah asserted today.
He said he believed that Sarawakians are now more confident and appreciative of the efforts by the state GPS government in fighting to restore the state eroded rights under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).
“Their full support of the GPS in the recent 12th state election had mirrored such appreciation and confidence.,” he said, pointing out that in the election, GPS won with a landslide victory by capturing 76 out of 82 State Assembly seats up for grabs.
Speaking at the joint opening of Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) Babu, Banting and Suri sub- branches triennial delegates meeting (TGM), he said:” Sarawakians are more confident in the ability of local political parties leaders under the chairmanship of Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg in fighting for our rights.
"They did not have such confidence in local leaders of Malayan-based Opposition parties to shoulder the responsibility.
"They, therefore, have been less enthusiastic to vote for the Opposition candidates in the state election,” he said, adding that the state government will continue to fight to reclaim the state’s rights from the federal government.
“We have made some great achievements like the State Sale tax on petroleum and petroleum products.
"Talks are ongoing on the other rights," he added.
Uggah explained the decision to change the title of the Chief Minister to Sarawak Premier was another significant move.
"This is to differentiate Sarawak from other states within Malaysia.
" We are after all the other partner, besides Sabah, that formed the Federation of Malaysia.
"This is another good beginning for us in our fight "
On the joint TGM, he said it was to unearth more young and new leaders at grassroots level.
"We want leaders who are in syn with situations, the people's aspirations and expectations in their respective areas.
"We want them to voice the aspirations and expectations to top party and government leaders to help them formulate relevant policies and plans,” he said.
