KUCHING: A veteran political observer has cautioned Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) to guard against complacency despite strong momentum ahead of the coming state election.
Seasoned analyst Datuk Peter Minos said the recent GPS Convention underscored the coalition’s unity, resilience and readiness to face any challenge in the polls expected by year-end.
He noted that speeches delivered by the coalition’s top leaders were not only inspiring but emotionally charged, reflecting confidence and strength within GPS ranks.
“The convention showed clearly that GPS is solid, united and eager to fight it out when the election comes,” he said.
According to the Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) veteran, the coalition’s strength lies in its shared purpose of developing Sarawak while defending its rights, particularly under the Malaysia Agreement 1963.
He pointed to the strong reaction from party members when the Premier reaffirmed his commitment to uphold Sarawak’s rights through legal and constitutional means.
“The crowd responded spontaneously, raising their hands and shouting ‘Sarawak First’. It was a powerful and natural expression of unity and support,” he said, adding that such enthusiasm was unprecedented in his decades of political involvement since the late 1960s.
Minos attributed the heightened emotion among Sarawakians to the current political climate, particularly ongoing legal disputes involving PETRONAS and the federal government.
He said these developments have reinforced a sense of identity and urgency among the people to stand up for Sarawak.
“This is not about being anti-federal or anti-Kuala Lumpur,” he stressed. “It is about Sarawakians showing love for their homeland, which they feel has not always been treated fairly.”
He believes this sentiment will pose a significant challenge for opposition parties.
“GPS has successfully captured the prevailing mood. In such a pro-Sarawak environment, it will be extremely difficult for the opposition to make inroads,” he said, adding that it would take “nothing short of a miracle” for opponents to secure even a single seat.
Minos also highlighted GPS’ track record in delivering development across the state as a key factor bolstering public confidence.
He notes that the achievements are visible, and people can see what has been done and what more can be expected if GPS is returned to power.
However, he cautioned that such dominance must not lead to complacency.
Drawing lessons from past political developments, he cited the decline of United Malays National Organisation (UMNO) as a stark reminder of how arrogance and misconduct can erode even the strongest parties.
“Many long-standing political parties have fallen because they took voters for granted. Power can become a disease that slowly weakens a party from within,” he warned.
Minos said GPS leaders must remain grounded, people-oriented and disciplined to sustain their support.
“So far, they are seen as level-headed and approachable. They must keep it that way – not just to win the next election, but to endure in the long run,” he added.
