Karim reiterates his readiness to step aside in the coming state election, but says the final decision lies with the GPS leadership

 KUCHING, Oct 23 2026: Tourism. Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah reiterated his readiness to step aside and let a new candidates to contest in his Asajaya in the coming state election.

Caption: Abdul Karm Rahman Hamzah says it is up to the GPS leadership to make the final decison

However, he said the final decision lies with the leadership of Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) and Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) and the views of the constituents if he should defend his seat.

He said he has represented Asajaya for last 25 years or five terms.

“For my part, I am ready to step aside. However, if the party and the voters of the constituency I represent still feel that my services are needed, I cannot decline,” he told reporters launching the International Dragon Boat Regatta 2026 at the Kuching Waterfront this afternoon.

He noted that the decision on whether to select new candidates or retain incumbents lies with Premier Abang Johari Openg, who is also GPS chairman and PBB president,  to decide and finalise the list of candidates.

According to him, the announcement regarding the candidates who will contest is expected to be made before nomination day.

Also present were Deputy Ministers of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Snowdan Lawan and Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew.