KUCHING: With the Sarawak state election widely expected to be called this year, the ground remains relatively calm in Serembu, at least for now, with little visible movement from opposition parties.
Incumbent state assemblyman, Datuk Miro Simuh, said that, so far, there has been no clear indication of which opposition party intends to contest against Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) in the seat.
“I have not received any information on which party will be fielding a candidate in Serembu. At the moment, everything seems quiet,” he said told Sarawak Tribune.
Miro, who represents GPS, noted that while speculation is rife statewide about a looming election, political activities in Serembu have yet to pick up pace.
He added that GPS continues to focus on service delivery and development efforts rather than politicking.
“Regardless of who the opponent will be, our priority is to continue serving the people and ensuring ongoing development projects are implemented smoothly,” stressed Miro, who is one of the Assistant Secretaries-General for the Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB).
Observers say the muted opposition presence could indicate internal discussions or seat negotiations are still ongoing among parties aligned with the federal ruling coalition like Sarawak DAP and Sarawak PKR and other local opposition blocs.
Serembu, a predominantly Bidayuh-majority seat, has been considered a relatively safe constituency for GPS in recent elections.
Nonetheless, Miro said he is not taking anything for granted.
“Elections are about the people’s mandate. We will continue engaging with grassroot communities and listening to their concerns,” he added.
As anticipation builds over the dissolution of the State Legislative Assembly, political watchers expect campaign activities to intensify only after nomination.
For now, however, Serembu remains in a low-key election mood, with voters waiting to see who will step forward to challenge the incumbent.
Miro was first elected in 2016 and secured his position in the subsequent state elections in 2021, retaining the seat with a 1,650-vote majority, defeating Iana Akam from Parti Sarawak Bersatu (PSB) and three others in a five-cornered fight.
