SIBU: Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) component party, Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP), is always ready to face election at any time, even though there is no indication that the State Election (PRN) will be held in the near future.
This was voiced by Public Health, Housing and Local Government Deputy Minister, Datuk Michael Tiang Ming Tee, who stated that the country’s political emphasis at the moment is still focused on developments in Sabah, Johor and Melaka.
“So far, I have not heard any rumour about the State Election. It is still just ‘the usual wind’, but that is not a reason for us to be complacent.
“GPS and SUPP are always in working and prepared mode,” he said during a community programme in conjunction with the Dragon Boat Festival or Dumpling Festival organised by SUPP Pelawan at Jalan Tuah here today.
The Pelawan assemblyman said SUPP is inclined to retain incumbent candidates in the upcoming election due to their experience and proven track record.
“The incumbent candidates have gone through various challenges, and they have proven their capabilities.
“But at the same time, they also need to help new candidates so that our team is stronger to serve the people,” he said.
He also praised the leadership of Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, who he said had successfully implemented various development policies, generated new income and introduced welfare programmes consistently.
Commenting on the state’s latest achievements, Tiang referred to the joint declaration between PETROS and PETRONAS which recognised Sarawak’s regulatory control over natural gas resources as a major success.
“This proves that Sarawak is becoming more competitive and sovereign from an economic perspective.
“Our Premier is very proactive in seeking new sources of revenue for the state’s prosperity,” he said.
Meanwhile, Tiang also equated the symbolic meaning of the ‘dumpling’ or Chinese ketupat with the values championed by SUPP and the spirit of unity of the Sarawakians.
“The shape of the ketupat symbolises justice. The rope that ties it symbolises unity, while the mixture of ingredients in it reflects cultural diversity.
“This is Sarawak united like a neatly tied ketupat,” he enthused.
The celebration also commemorated the Chinese patriotic poet, Qu Yuan, who according to Tiang symbolised the spirit of justice and nationalism which is in line with SUPP’s principles of struggle.
In the programme, 500 packs of dumplings were distributed to senior citizens in addition to free health checks by the PMG Clinic.
