KUCHING, Nov 24 2025: Is there such a directive issued by Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) not to support or campaign for any party or candidate in the Sabah state election?
Caption: PDP president Tiong King Sing speaking at Kampung Merotai Iban to show support for PH candidate Datuk Ruji Ubi - Facebook/Tiong King Sing
According to Progressive Democratic Party (PDP) deputy president Henry Harry Jinep, there was a directive issued by GPS chairman Abang Johari Openg, the premier of Sarawak.
If there is such a directive, how is it that PDP president Tiong King Sing was “visiting Kampung Merotai to show support for Datuk Ruji Ubi”, the Pakatan Harapan candidate for the Merotai state seat.
Was Tiong, the tourism, arts and culture, against the directive issued by GPS not to take part in campaigning any party or candidate in the Sabah election?
Writing on his Facebook two days ago, he said he had the honour of visiting Kg Merotai Iban to show support for Datuk Ruji Ubi, the candidate from Pakatan Harapan.
“Through meaningful conversations with the village elders and local youth, I gained a deeper appreciation for the distinct heritage and cultural strength of this uniquely Iban community in Sabah. “It is clear that the village shares a firm vision for developing a cultural village and creating authentic, immersive tourism experiences.
“The commitment and enthusiasm of the villagers stand out,” he said.
Caption: PDP president Tiong King Sing at a ceramah at Kampung Merotai Iban - Facebook/Tiong King Sing
He said Merotai is rich in cultural traditions and blessed with impressive natural assets, adding that the potential here is undeniable.
“With the right support, the village can grow into a compelling tourism destination that allows visitors to truly experience Iban identity, stories, and resilience,” he said.
Tiong said Ruji is well-positioned to help realise this vision, adding that his extensive administrative experience and strong understanding of government processes make him an effective advocate for the community.
“With a clear mandate, he can streamline documentation, land matters, and applications, and secure the resources needed to advance cultural and community development.
“I also call on all Sabahans working away from home to return and vote on November 29. Your vote carries real impact and will shape the future direction of Merotai,” he added.
On Nov 19, Henry had told reporters that GPS was not taking part in campaigning for the Sabah state polls.
Quoted by the Borneo Post, he said any coalition members found doing so would face disciplinary action.
He was commenting on a video showing a PDP Marudi member claiming to be helping with the campaign in Sabah.
According to Henry, the GPS chairman and premier had already communicated with PDP president Dato Sri Tiong King Sing over the matter.
“The individual, who introduced himself as a ‘Datuk’ and wore a GPS shirt in the video, is indeed a PDP member from Marudi branch, but had acted entirely on his own.
He stressed that GPS’ position on the matter is firm.
“Our directive is clear — no GPS members should go to Sabah to campaign. The party did not send anyone to Sabah to campaign on behalf of PDP or GPS. That is not our stand,” he said as quoted by the Borneo Post.
Henry the case of the Datuk campaigning in Sabah would be referred to PDP’s disciplinary committee and the party’s leadership.
On how the PDP Marudi member would be disciplined, Henry said the party’s disciplinary committee would meet before making any recommendation.
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