Taib to defend Balingian, says every day brings polls closer

KUCHING (Bernama) - Sarawak Chief Minister and Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) president Tan Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud has expressed a desire to defend the Balingian state seat in the next state elections, due in July next year.

However, he said he would abide by the decision of the party on where he should contest.

"Defend Balingian ... I will abide by the party's decision. I cannot decide myself. Perhaps, return to Balingian. We work as a group. I have contested in Samarahan, Asajaya ... I think I will remain in Balingian," he told reporters when approached at the Penrissen Camp Aidilfitri "open house", here.

Taib, 74, has held the Balingian seat since 2001. Prior to that, he has held the Sebandi/Asajaya state seat, from 1981 to 1996. He has also held the Samarahan parliamentary seat from 1969 to 2004.

Asked whether the next state elections was near at hand, Taib said every passing day brought the elections closer.