Adapt your approach to changing generation of voters, Abang Johari tells GPS leadership

KUCHING, Oct 22 2026: Premier Abang Johari Openg reminded the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) leadership to adapt its approach to a changing generation of voters who are increasingly tech-savvy and hold different expectations of leadership, particularly in the face of developments in artificial intelligence (AI).

Caption: Premier Abang Johari Openg arriving for the GPS Backbenchers Night

He said voters aged 18 and above from the new generation have access to information and knowledge that enable them to assess issues and raise more complex questions.

"We must remember that our voters have changed, including those aged 18 and above.

"This generation will question us and pose questions to us," he said at the GPS Backbenchers Night last night.

He stressed that the change demands that leaders continue to adapt to current developments and understand the evolving needs of the community.

Abang Zohari, who is also GPS chairman, said the leadership must also be strengthened by developing a line-up of leaders who can adapt to change and understand the issues faced by communities in their respective constituencies.

Tupong State Legislative Member (SLM) Fazzrudin Abdul Rahman, who is also chief political secretary to the premier, expressed the readiness of the GPS State Legislative Members (SLMs) to shoulder any responsibility, whether as candidates or in other capacities ahead of the upcoming Sarawak State Election.

He said SLM must be prepared to carry out their entrusted duties with full commitment, while maintaining a spirit of unity among all GPS members.

He said the readiness is crucial as the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) term nears its end.

“Regardless of the role assigned to us ahead of the upcoming election, I am confident that each of us will perform our duties to the best of our ability.

“Whether we are cast as a ‘striker,’ a ‘midfielder,’ a ‘goalkeeper,’ or a substitute, I am certain that the premier, backbenchers, and all GPS members will provide their full support to GPS as it prepares to face the election,” he said.

Fazzrudin noted that the event also served as a platform to acknowledge the cooperation and commitment shown by members of the Backbenchers Club throughout the current term of State Legislative Assembly (SLA).

Flood Mitigation Scheme to benefit over 9,000 residents in Stampin Resettlement Scheme

KUCHING, Oct 22 2026: The implementation of the Flood Mitigation Project for the Stampin Resettlement Scheme is expected to benefit more than 9,000 residents, comprising approximately 1,000 households in the area.

Caption: Deputy Premier Dr Sim Kui Hian explaining something to a group of guests after the launch of the flood mitigation project for Stampin Resettlement Scheme

Deputy Premier Dr Sim Kui Hian stressed that the project is crucial for reducing the risk of flash floods, which frequently affect residents in this settlement that has existed for over 50 years.

According to him, Phase One of the flood mitigation project involves an allocation of approximately RM87 million to upgrade the drainage system and implement flood mitigation measures in the area.

He noted that the primary drainage works must be completed first before the smaller drainage systems within the residential area can be connected, ensuring that water flow is managed more effectively. 

“Most importantly, it will help reduce flash floods.

“By enlarging the main drains and connecting them to the Sarawak River, more space will be created for water, which will help lower the risk of flooding,” he told reporters after launching the Flood Mitigation Project for the Stampin Resettlement Scheme here today.

Dr Sim explained that the project is expected to take approximately 30 months to complete, as its implementation involves areas that already contain houses, water pipes, utilities, and existing infrastructure.

According to him, a phased approach is necessary to ensure that development work can be carried out systematically without significantly disrupting the residents' amenities.

He added that efforts to address flooding must take into account changing weather patterns and the increasing frequency of heavy rainfall resulting from climate change.

He clarified that flood mitigation planning now places greater emphasis on creating water storage spaces—such as retention ponds—to hold excess water before it is channeled away.

He noted that this approach is crucial to ensuring that new developments do not increase flood risks in the surrounding areas.

“Water needs space to be contained. That is why we must look at the entire system—from minor drains to main drains, and ultimately to the river,” he said.

He further stated that the implementation of this flood mitigation project is part of the Sarawak Government’s ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure and the well-being of the population, particularly in areas that have long been developed.

Dr Sim added that the development of infrastructure, such as drainage systems, roads, and public facilities, must be carried out continuously to ensure that these areas continue to evolve in line with the needs of the residents.

Also present were State Legislative Member (SLM) for Kota Sentosa Wilfred Yap Yau Sin and Mayor of Kuching South City Wee Hong Seng.

PMX Anwar praises Sarawak for its commitment in implementing sustainable development initiatives

PUTRAJAYA, Oct 22 2026:  Sarawak’s commitment to implementing sustainable development initiatives, specifically regarding environmental sustainability as well as its swift action in addressing the issue of regional haze, has drawn praise from Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.

Caption: Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim chairing the National Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Council meeting for 2026, held at the Perdana Meeting Room, Prime Minister’s Office, Putrajaya

This recognition was conveyed by the prime minister while chairing the National Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Council meeting for 2026, held at the Perdana Meeting Room, Prime Minister’s Office, Putrajaya, today.

According to Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas), Deputy Premier  Awang Tengah Ali Hasan attended the meeting, representing Premier Abang Johari Openg.

Also present at the meeting was Deputy Prime Minister Fadillah Yusof.

During the proceedings, Anwar commended Sarawak’s efforts in executing various initiatives aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those emphasizing environmental preservation and sustainability.

The praise for Sarawak’s prompt response to the regional haze issue underscores the importance of proactive measures in confronting environmental challenges that require effective cooperation and coordination.

The meeting brought together federal cabinet ministers, chief ministers, and heads of state governments from across the nation to discuss the implementation and strategic direction of the country’s sustainable development policy.

It also served as a vital platform for evaluating the progress of SDG implementation at both the national and state levels, while reinforcing a collective commitment toward balanced, inclusive, and sustainable development. 

Sarawak’s participation in the meeting demonstrates its ongoing commitment to supporting the nation’s sustainable development agenda, particularly through an approach that balances economic growth, the well-being of the people, and environmental sustainability. 

Don't be too concerned if DAP is wiped out in upcoming Sarawak state election, PBK president tells Sarawakians

KUCHING, Oct 22 2026: Parti Bumi Kenyalang (PBK) president Voon Lee Shan reminded Sarawakians not to be too concerned if the state DAP is eliminated from the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly (SLA) in the upcoming state election.

Caption: PBK president Voon Lee Shan stresses local opposition and non-GPS political parties can be more effective as a "control mechanism " against GPS because "we are not controlled by anyone from Malaya."

He said the absence of the DAP's State Legislative Members (SLMs) does not mean the end of the road for the Sarawak opposition parties. 

"Instead, it is an opportunity for other opposition parties and non-GPS parties to step forward and represent the voices, aspirations and interests of Sarawakians," he said in a statement.

Voon stressed local opposition and non-GPS political parties can be more effective as a "control mechanism " against GPS because "we are not controlled by anyone from Malaya."

He noted that during the discussions leading to the formation of Malaysia, the aspirations of the people of Sarawak were rooted in protecting the state's rights, autonomy and identity. 

He said the formation of Malaysia was never meant to erase Sarawak’s political identity or allow the state’s affairs to be dominated by political forces from Malaya.

"The Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) remains a fundamental part of Sarawak’s history and the foundation of our relationship within Malaysia. 

"The question of political parties from Malaya operating and contesting seats in Sarawak should therefore be discussed openly in the context of Sarawak’s autonomy, the spirit of MA63 and the original aspirations of our people. 

"It was not in the Malaysia Agreement to allow Malaya political parties to set foot in Sarawak and Sabah," he noted.

Voon said Sarawak needs a strong, credible and homegrown opposition that puts Sarawak first, adding:"Regardless of which party holds power, the people of Sarawak deserve representatives who understand our local realities, defend our rights and speak up fearlessly for our future."

He stressed the future of Sarawak must be shaped by Sarawakians, for Sarawakians.

Fatimah says deeply saddened by an incident involving a teenager at a school yesterday, caliing for safety in school be given a priority

KUCHING, Oct 22 2026: Women, Early Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Minister Fatimah Abdullah said she is deeply saddened and concerned by an incident involving a young adolescent at a school in Kuching, which has recently attracted public attention on social media.

Caption: Minister Fatimah Abdullah says  any incident involving violence or the use of a weapon must be taken seriously and addressed appropriately to protect the entire school community.

She said the safety and well-being of everyone in the schools must remain a priority, saying that teachers must be able to carry out their responsibilities in a safe environment, while students must be able to learn without fear of violence or harm.

"I recognise and appreciate the continuous efforts of teachers, school administrators and the relevant authorities to safeguard teachers and students," she said in a statement, adding that any incident involving violence or the use of a weapon must be taken seriously and addressed appropriately to protect the entire school community.

"At the same time, this matter must be approached with care and compassion. The adolescent involved is still growing and developing. While harmful behaviour must be addressed, we must not be quick to condemn, label or shame a young person without understanding the circumstances surrounding the incident," Fatimah stressed.

She added accountability and compassion are not mutually exclusive, adding :" We can uphold the safety of teachers and students while ensuring that the adolescent is treated with dignity and receives appropriate guidance and support."

Fatimah said she is particularly concerned by the words reportedly shared by the adolescent on Facebook: “I have no one. I have no significant other. I have no one to rely on. I was born alone and will die alone.”

She said the people should not make assumptions about what this young person may be experiencing, but expressions of loneliness and isolation must not be dismissed. 

"Every child deserves to feel valued, heard and supported. When a young person says, “I have no one,” our response should be to help them access the support they need, not to deepen their sense of isolation.

"I also strongly urge the public not to upload, share or circulate videos of this incident on social media because such act violates a child’s right . The footage may cause further distress, expose those involved to online harassment and compromise their privacy and dignity. Once circulated, it can spread rapidly and remain accessible long after the incident," Fatimah appealed.

She said social media must not become a platform for public shaming or trial by public opinion, telling members of the public to exercise restraint, avoid speculation and refer any relevant information to the appropriate authorities rather than disseminating the footage.

"Our responsibility is twofold: to ensure that schools remain safe places for teachers and students, and to ensure that young people facing difficulties receive the opportunity to learn, obtain appropriate support and move forward constructively," she stressed.

Fatimah said her ministry remains committed to promoting an environment in which safety, dignity, compassion and accountability go hand in hand. We must not define a young person solely by one incident, nor overlook the safety and well-being of the teacher and students affected.

"Every person involved deserves to be treated with dignity, and this matter must be handled responsibly, fairly and with due regard for the facts.

"Let us choose responsibility over sensationalism, guidance over humiliation, and compassion without compromising safety. Together, we must ensure that our schools remain safe for teachers and students, while ensuring that no child is left without help and support," she advised.

In the incident at a private international school, a female teacher was injured in a scuffle with the student.

She was reported to be out of danger while the student was arrested by the police.