KUCHING: Claims circulating on social media that Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) is considering contesting seats in Sabah in the upcoming general election have been dismissed as false.
Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Corporate Affairs, Information and UKAS), Datuk Abdullah Saidol, said the posts on TikTok and Facebook were fabricated and intended to mislead the public.
He said there was no basis to suggest that Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, as GPS chairman, had ever made such a statement.
“The social media posts are clearly baseless political slander, crafted in a shallow and irresponsible manner to create suspicion and unease between the people of Sabah and Sarawak.
“The leadership of the Sarawak Government has never intended nor taken any steps to interfere in the political affairs or administration of other states in Malaysia,” he said when responding to media queries.
Abdullah said the current leadership under Abang Johari remained focused on developing Sarawak, particularly in infrastructure, economic growth and public welfare.
He asserted that the administration continues to implement clear policies and practical development agendas to strengthen the state’s progress.
He said that amid global economic uncertainties, including tensions in the Middle East, the Premier has introduced additional financial assistance to help Sarawakians cope with rising living costs.
“‘Sarawak First’ is not merely about safeguarding and protecting the state’s rights and interests, but also reflects the leadership’s commitment to advancing Sarawak through a modern economic ecosystem and the development of quality infrastructure for the people.
“As the state’s revenue grows, Sarawakians will in turn benefit from improved facilities and various forms of assistance,” he added.
As such, he said the Sarawak government remained open to constructive cooperation with any state to promote shared development and safeguard public welfare.
He also dismissed negative or divisive political rhetoric, saying it would not bring any benefit and could instead weaken and disrupt the implementation of development agendas at both state and national levels.
