MIRI – The Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) coalition has drawn up a manifesto propagating the “Sarawak First” theme as its central campaign focus for the 12th state election.
The manifesto, expected to be unveiled by GPS chairman Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg tomorrow, contains among its pledges that GPS will restore the full rights of Sarawak within the Federation of Malaysia under the context of the Malaysia Agreement 1963.
The manifesto also touches on how GPS will fight for equal financial allocations with its counterparts in the peninsular as well as protect the interest of Sarawakians by fighting for a bigger share of the socio-economic pie on the national front.
The Vibes spoke to Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) deputy information chief Datuk Peter Minos on the manifesto and GPS’ promotion of the “Sarawak First'” theme.
Minos, who is Kota Samarahan municipal council chairman, said the theme was agreed upon by GPS coalition members PBB, Sarawak United Peoples Party (SUPP), Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS) and Progressive Democratic Party (PDP).
“The ‘Sarawak First’ theme contains a comprehensive meaning that covers all that GPS is fighting for.
“There is heavy focus on the rights of Sarawak and Sarawakians within Malaysia.
“This is a hot issue that has been in the spotlight for the past few years.
“Fighting to get back the rights we lost to Malaya is an issue close to the hearts of Sarawakians,” he said.
As such, Minos said, GPS is dealing with Putrajaya as well as Petronas to get a bigger share of the national revenue.
“As for the other issues in focus in the manifesto, GPS will tell Sarawakians that we have taken good care of them.
“GPS has been hardworking in ensuring developments benefit the people of Sarawak and that GPS has the interests of all at heart,” he said, adding that the coalition is confident that “Sarawak First” motto will win the hearts and minds of the voters.
Sarawakian are set to cast their votes on December 18 with 78 from the 82 seats set to see multi-cornered fights.
While analysts have named GPS as favourites to win the election, and opposition parties such as PKR, DAP and Parti Sarawak Bersatu are expected to provide a respectable challenge. – The Vibes, December 7, 2021
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