Sarawak election window narrows as December polls loom, says Abdul Karim

SARAWAK could hold its 13th state election in December, with Dec 12 and 19 identified as possible polling dates as the window for the polls narrows, state Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said.

He said the timing would depend on when Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Abang Openg dissolves the State Legislative Assembly, while the Election Commission (EC) would determine the actual polling date.

Although the assembly’s five-year term expires in February next year, Abdul Karim said he believed the election was more likely to take place in December, given the time needed for the EC to organise the polls and the campaign period.

“Once the assembly is dissolved, the EC is required under election laws to hold an election within 60 days,” he said.

A dissolution in late October or November would leave a limited window for the EC to meet, set the election timetable and allow for the customary campaign period of about two weeks, he said.

January or February would be less suitable because of several festivals and Ramadan, further narrowing the available timeframe.

“So, we only have November and half of December. That is why I say it may happen, or it may not. Everything depends on when the assembly is dissolved.

“I can say that the dissolution will happen soon,” he said.

Abdul Karim, an information chief of Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB), said GPS was ready for the election, while opposition parties were also expected to prepare for the contest.

On candidate selection, he said the final decision rested with the coalition’s top leadership, but some changes were likely, including opportunities for women and younger candidates.

GPS was confident of retaining its two-thirds majority in the 82-seat assembly, he said, but would not regard any constituency as a foregone conclusion.

“Every seat is important. We cannot assume there are safe, marginal or unwinnable seats because we must respect voters and ensure they have the best representatives,” he said.

Asked whether he would defend the Asajaya seat, which he has held for about 25 years, Abdul Karim said he would defer to Abang Johari and was willing to step aside for a younger candidate if the leadership considered it appropriate.

“I am prepared to make way and support whoever is chosen. But I leave that decision to the Premier,” he said. - October 17, 2026