KUCHING: Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Sabah and Sarawak Affairs) Datuk Mustapha Sakmud supports the proposal to increase the number of parliamentary seats for Sabah and Sarawak, saying the move would help improve services and development for the people.
He said the proposal to expand parliamentary representation was timely as it would allow elected representatives to better serve communities, particularly in the two Borneo states.
“We appreciate the voices from Borneo, especially Members of Parliament and senators who have been raising the issue of increasing parliamentary seats for Sabah and Sarawak,” he said.
He said this when met by reporters after attending a breaking-of-fast session with members of the Sarawak media at YS Cafe here last night (Mar 8).
Mustapha said the proposal was important given the vast geographical areas in the two states, which often made it challenging for representatives to effectively serve their constituents.
“This is important because when we have more parliamentary seats, we can focus more on delivering services and safeguarding the welfare of the people,” he said.
Mustapha said increasing parliamentary constituencies would also bring additional allocations which could be used to improve development efforts in the region.
He also said the additional resources would help ensure the welfare of the people, particularly in addressing infrastructure needs in rural and remote areas.
“There are still many areas in our regions that remain relatively underdeveloped, and with the addition of parliamentary seats we will be able to examine these infrastructure issues more closely,” he said.
Mustapha pointed out that the Election Commission (EC) is currently reviewing the proposal and expressed hope that the process can be expedited.
“We hope the parties involved can expedite this process. The EC is currently studying the matter before it is brought forward. That is the process,” he added.
