Premier has been asked a few days ago (June 22, 2026) about Sarawak Election and this is in response to the 13th Sarawak Elections
GPS Appears Strong, But No Government Is Beyond Accountability
Parti Bumi Kenyalang (PBK) wishes to emphasise that the strength of a government should not be measured solely by the number of seats it holds in the legislature, the resources at its disposal, or the length of time it has remained in office.
History has repeatedly shown that governments which appear politically dominant can still lose public confidence when they fail to meet the expectations and aspirations of the people.
GPS currently enjoys a substantial political advantage in Sarawak. It possesses an established political machinery, significant financial resources, and extensive experience in government administration.
However, political strength on paper should not be mistaken for political invincibility.
The first challenge facing GPS is the issue of Sarawak's constitutional rights and autonomy.
For many years, GPS has positioned itself as the principal defender of Sarawak's rights within the Federation of Malaysia. While certain progress has been made in relation to MA63 and administrative matters, many Sarawakians continue to question why numerous constitutional, fiscal and autonomy-related issues remain unresolved after decades of negotiations.
The public is entitled to ask whether the outcomes achieved are proportionate to the political influence that GPS claims to possess at the federal level.
The second challenge concerns Sarawak's natural resources and revenue.
Sarawak remains one of the richest regions in Malaysia in terms of oil, gas, land, timber and other natural resources. Nevertheless, many Sarawakians continue to question whether the state is receiving a fair and adequate return from the wealth generated from its resources.
The issue is not merely one of resource ownership. It is also a question of whether the benefits derived from these resources have sufficiently improved the quality of life of ordinary Sarawakians.
The third challenge relates to the growing dependence on state funds to finance projects that many believe should properly fall within federal responsibility.
While the willingness of the Sarawak Government to fund development projects demonstrates financial capability, it also raises legitimate questions regarding the effectiveness of federal-state fiscal arrangements and whether Sarawak is receiving equitable treatment within the Federation.
The fourth challenge concerns the gap between political influence and measurable outcomes.
GPS frequently highlights its role and influence in national politics. However, influence is meaningful only if it translates into concrete benefits for the people of Sarawak.
The public is increasingly interested not in political positioning, but in practical results.
The fifth challenge is the need for political renewal.
After many decades of governance by the same political establishment under different names and coalitions, there is a growing discussion among Sarawakians regarding leadership succession, fresh ideas, and opportunities for a younger generation of leaders to participate more actively in shaping the state's future.
PBK believes these concerns should not be dismissed as opposition rhetoric.
They reflect genuine questions being raised by many Sarawakians regarding the direction of the state, the management of its resources, and the effectiveness of its leadership.
The coming 13th Sarawak State Election should therefore be viewed not merely as a contest between political parties, but as an opportunity for voters to evaluate the performance of those entrusted with governing the state.
In a democracy, no government should assume that electoral support is permanent.
Public confidence must be earned continuously through performance, accountability, transparency and results.
PBK respects the right of voters to make their own judgment.
Our position is simple.
Sarawak deserves a government that not only speaks about rights, autonomy and prosperity, but one that is able to secure and deliver them in a manner that produces tangible benefits for all Sarawakians.
The ultimate decision belongs to the people.
And in a democratic society, the people remain the final and highest authority.
VOON LEE SHAN
President
Parti Bumi Kenyalang (PBK)