KUCHING: Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) 16th Convention from February 14 to 16 is expected to be attended by approximately 3,500 delegates and observers.
According to Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, the party has been actively preparing for the convention through zone meetings covering the northern, southern, and Betong zones.
The upcoming PBB convention will start with the Youth and Women’s Wing. Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah is expected to officiate at the opening ceremony.
“On February 15, the main convention will be officiated by the Sarawak Premier, who is also a key figure in PBB,” he said.
Awang Tengah highlighted that one of the key aspects of this year’s PBB convention will be the proposed amendments to the party’s constitution, along with the presentation and debate of various motions covering political, economic, educational, and social issues.
“Some motions will be debated, while others will be accepted without debate, following our established practices. Every time we hold a convention, we receive motions from our grassroots branches, which is an important platform for gathering input from the people,” he added.
He stressed that PBB prioritizes listening to the voices of the people, especially through motions raised by its 82 branches, ensuring that necessary changes and improvements are made to policies in response to public concerns.
“This is the strength of our party. We listen to the people. If policies need to be changed or improved, we will make the necessary efforts. We also use this platform to explain government policies and initiatives, reinforcing unity and cooperation among our members,” he said.
Reflecting on the history of PBB, Awang Tengah noted that while his political journey with the party began in 1987, PBB itself has a much longer history dating back to the merger of Parti BARJASA (Sarawak Native People’s Front) and PANAS (National Party of Sarawak) to form Parti Bumiputera. Later, in 1973, Parti Bumiputera merged with Parti PESAKA to form what is now PBB.
“The party has endured many challenges, including the Ming Court crisis in 1987, which saw internal divisions and defections. However, through the loyalty and commitment of our members, PBB has continued to grow and remain a dominant political force in Sarawak,” he said.
He recalled the 2018 general election, during which Barisan Nasional (BN) suffered significant losses in Peninsular Malaysia and Sabah, leading to the coalition’s downfall at the federal level. In response, PBB played a crucial role in establishing Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) to chart its course.
“We left BN and formed GPS. Even though it was new, the people of Sarawak stood by us. PBB remained strong, and in the last state election, we achieved a significant victory, winning 76 out of 82 seats,” he added.
Looking ahead, Awang Tengah emphasized the importance of unity, loyalty, and cooperation among party members, particularly in strengthening relationships between leaders, members, and the wider community.
“The history of PBB must be understood, especially by the younger generation, as it provides valuable lessons to help us face future challenges. Our goal is to continue moving forward while remaining committed to the party’s struggle,” he said.
