KUCHING: The Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) Kuching branch is considering Nicholas Wung to contest the Padungan seat in the next state election.
If fielded, Wung, 39, who has been actively involved in grassroots activities over the past two years, will be the youngest candidate to contest the seat for the party.
According to SUPP Kuching branch chairperson Datuk Lily Yong, the youth section has received confirmation from the youth wing that they have endorsed Wung.
“The youth endorsed him, and that is important.
“The youth will always like to propose a few names, but they are very mature in their decision.
“They only want one candidate, and they are very determined to make sure this young man can do something for the people of Padungan.
“They want to see a change, a real change, not just words, and I am pleased to see that our young leaders are willing to sacrifice and put in the work to make that change happen,” she said after attending a media interactive session at the Kuching Community Social Support Centre (CSSC) today (Feb 10).
Yong said Padungan has stagnated for over 20 years with hardly any significant developments.
“We cannot waste time anymore for Padungan; twenty years, nothing is happening.
“Padungan needs a proper, overall plan, not just bits and pieces of patchwork.
“We need real solutions, especially for flooding, which has been a major issue for shop owners and residents alike,” she said.
Wung has been a practising lawyer since 2011, a party member for over two years, and has been intensely working on community engagement.
Wung said that, as chairman of the Kuching Branch Youth Wing, he had been working closely with locals and grassroots movements to understand the residents’ concerns within the constituency.
“We have visited more than 40 associations and NGOs over the past year alone.
“We’ve also spent time engaging with residents of KMC Flats, including those living in the seven-storey flats, the two-storey flats, and the three-storey flats.
“Many people are unhappy with current affairs but are afraid to speak up.
“That is why we are here, to listen and act,” he said.
While Wung remains cautious about outlining specific development plans, he acknowledges that funding constraints have been a significant hurdle in Padungan.
He believes securing a Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS)-aligned representative in the state assembly is crucial for unlocking state resources for infrastructure improvements.
“We have the heart to do it, but for the past 20 years, we haven’t had the resources.
“If we have an ADUN (assemblyman) from GPS, we can apply for funding.
“However, right now, we are constrained, and we are trying, but without the necessary support, our hands are tied,” he added.
Wung added that he is prepared for the challenge ahead of him, including facing off against veteran politicians.
“If your question is whether I fear, of course, we fear nobody because we have nothing to lose.
“We are here to serve, and we are ready to fight for what is right for the people of Padungan,” he said.
