Don’t let Sarawak fall apart, Abang Jo tells voters

 

Abang Johari Openg (centre) with other GPS leaders at the launch of the coalition’s 34-point manifesto for the Sarawak elections yesterday.

PETALING JAYA: Caretaker chief minister Abang Johari Openg has urged Sarawakians to vote wisely in the upcoming state elections and elect a strong government in order to keep the state from “falling apart”.

The Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) chairman said a strong state administration, coupled with its resources and economic strength, would ensure that Sarawak would be able to look after itself.

“In the practice of democracy, of course, everyone who is eligible has the right to contest. I leave it to the people. However, do not let Sarawak fall apart, the government must be strong.

“Though we (GPS) are not members of Barisan Nasional, we support the federal government because the country needs a stable government.

“Although there are still problems at the moment, I leave it to them. What’s important is that Malaysia, as a developing country, must be heading towards a good future for the new generation of Malaysians,” he told local daily New Sarawak Tribune.

Abang Johari added Sarawakians wanted stability in the state and believed that this was something GPS would be able to offer them.

He also said GPS was confident that its social and economic policies as well as focus on ensuring unity in the state’s multiracial and multi-religious society would draw voters to support them.

The Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu president launched GPS’ 34-point manifesto for the Sarawak elections yesterday, pledging to guarantee the state’s political stability and autonomy.

Abang Johari also said the coalition would acknowledge and ensure the rights of people to native customary rights lands and native territorial domain are maintained.

Sarawak goes to the polls on Dec 18, with early voting taking place on Dec 14.