KUCHING: Leaders, grassroots members of Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS), and members of the community have expressed confidence that newly elected president Datuk Seri John Sikie Tayai will steer the party with unity, strength, and renewed purpose.
PRS Youth deputy chief Surai Anthony Abell said the election of Sikie during the party’s recent 6th Triennial Delegates Conference (TDC) reflected members’ trust in his leadership and experience.
“In my view, choosing Datuk Seri Sikie as the leader was the right decision. He is an experienced leader with a high capacity to guide the party forward,” he told Sarawak Tribune.
Surai added Sikie’s credibility and proven ability could be seen through his current position as Minister in the Premier’s Department, a role that underscores his competence and credibility.
“Moreover, as a PRS member, I see Datuk Seri Sikie as a leader who is approachable and humble. In Iban, we describe such a person as ‘nelap’ and ‘mentas’, meaning friendly, kind-hearted and down-to-earth.
“These are among the leadership qualities that inspire confidence among PRS members,” he said.
Echoing his views, PRS Belaga Youth member Haider Kowel Bete said Sikie’s election reflected the party’s faith in his vast experience and deep understanding of grassroots concerns.
“He has consistently demonstrated strong leadership and a deep understanding of the people’s needs throughout his years of service to Sarawak.
“Therefore, his appointment marks a new and promising chapter for PRS – one that brings renewed energy, stability, and unity especially in strengthening the party’s role and continuity of leadership among the Dayak community,” he said.
He also expressed hope that Sikie would continue to prioritise the development of rural areas, particularly in constituencies represented by the party that still lack essential infrastructure such as proper roads, treated water supply, and other basic amenities.
Meanwhile, Persatuan Bangsa Sekapan, Belaga, also extended their congratulations to Sikie on his election as PRS president for the 2025-2028 term.
The association’s chairman Erick Drenner Dangan said the victory – achieved through a fair and transparent party election – reflected members’ strong support for Sikie’s leadership and vision.
“This victory demonstrates the confidence and unity of PRS members towards Datuk Seri Sikie, who has shown capability, dedication, and commitment to advancing the development and wellbeing of the community,” he said.
He also conveyed his prayers for Sikie to be granted continued strength, wisdom, and inspiration to serve with full dedication and to lead PRS towards a more vibrant and progressive future.
Sikie, 75, who also serves as the Kakus assemblyman, succeeded Datuk Seri Joseph Salang Gandum, who chose not to seek re-election as party president.
In a direct contest, Sikie secured the presidency with a majority of 32 votes after defeating Pelagus assemblyman Wilson Nyabong Ijang.
