BINTULU: Strong internal unity within Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS) is crucial to enable the party to effectively address challenges faced by the Dayak community, particularly in rural and interior areas, says its president Datuk Seri John Sikie Tayai.
He said cohesion among party members would allow PRS to remain resilient and relevant while continuing to play its role in supporting Sarawak’s political stability and development agenda.
“As a party rooted in rural areas, unity among our members is vital for us to uplift and resolve issues affecting the Dayak community,” he said when speaking at the 2026 New Year Dinner held in conjunction with the 2nd PRS Supreme Council Meeting here on Saturday (Jan 17).
Sikie, who is also Minister in the Premier’s Department, said PRS plays a strategic role whether it is part of the government or outside the administration, particularly in supporting and cooperating on initiatives that benefit the people, including strengthening community development and the economy.
He noted that the party had successfully dispelled old perceptions that questioned the capability of Dayak leadership, proving that a Dayak-based party is not temporary in nature but capable of standing firm in Sarawak’s political landscape.
He also called on party leaders at all levels to strengthen cooperation and unity, continue supporting the state government, and intensify grassroots engagement to better understand the needs of local communities.
Sikie then stated close collaboration with community leaders and grassroots party leadership, including Members of the State Legislative Assembly (DUN), is essential to ensure responsibilities are carried out more effectively.
“I hope these continuous efforts will help maintain the people’s trust in the next elections and enable the development agenda and improvement plans agreed upon at the Sarawak level to be implemented successfully,” he said.
