PETALING JAYA: Recent developments in the Sarawak government’s takeover initiatives indicate that Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) now possesses greater bargaining power, says a political analyst.
“(With 23 seats in the Dewan Rakyat), GPS can chart its course and engage in effective negotiations,” Awang Azman Pawi of Universiti Malaya told FMT.
“This shows GPS’s strength and influence are growing, especially over the federal government.”
Awang Azman said the rapid progress also demonstrated the federal government’s readiness to support Sarawak’s initiatives.
“This implies that the current administration better understands what is going on in Sarawak, compared to the previous administration,” he said.
However, Awang Azman warned that excessive GPS influence might invite undue attention towards their demands and potentially weaken checks and balances.
“For instance, (there could be) projects overseen by the state government that might be seen as wasteful, but criticism (from Putrajaya) might be less aggressive due to concerns over straining relationships,” he said.
On Wednesday, Sarawak premier Abang Johari Openg said the state aimed to complete three takeovers this year.
Two of these involve Bintulu Port and MASwings Sdn Bhd, while the third remains undisclosed.
Meanwhile, James Chin of the University of Tasmania said the announcements, though not new, were being brought up deliberately as a reminder that GPS wielded substantial power in the federal government.
“He (Abang Jo) is trying to reinforce the popular view that GPS is (becoming) very powerful and they can do what they want with the federal government in terms of getting more autonomy for Sarawak,” he said.
Chin added that there may be positive outcomes for neighbouring Sabah. “The good news for Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) is that whatever concessions are granted to Sarawak, the Sabahans can ask for the same.” - FMT
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