MIRI: Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has remained tight-lipped on the timing of the state election, declining to confirm when the legislative assembly might be dissolved.
Speaking at a dinner with community leaders at the Pullman Hotel here last night (Apr 25), he cautioned against the spread of misinformation, particularly on social media, even as speculation over the next state polls intensifies.
“People can say all sorts of things online. It is understandable, as the drumbeat of elections will soon be heard,” he said, translating his Malay remark that “maklumlah tidak lama lagi beduk akan berbunyi,” a colloquial expression suggesting that an election is drawing near.
However, when pressed on whether his comment signal that the state election was imminent, the Premier maintained his guarded stance.
“When the drum is actually sounded, I myself do not know,” he said during a press conference after officiating the Sarawakku Sayang programme at Miri Stadium here today, indicating that no firm decision has been publicly decided on the dissolution of the State Legislative Assembly (DUN).
Under the Sarawak Constitution, the state assembly has a maximum term of five years from its first sitting.
The current 12th Sarawak Legislative Assembly first convened in early 2022 following the last state election held in Dec 2021.
This means its term is set to expire in 2027, although it can be dissolved earlier at the discretion of the Yang di-Pertua Negeri, on the advice of the Premier.
Despite the official timeline, political observers and grassroots leaders have been abuzz with talk that an early election could be called, possibly to capitalise on current political stability and favourable economic conditions in the state.
Recent Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) Convention and the launch of Sarawakku Sayang Programme in Limbang about two weeks ago have further fuelled such speculation, with some viewing them as precursors to an election campaign.
