KUCHING: Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS) divisions from the Rajang Basin have thrown their strong support behind Datuk Snowdan Lawan as the party’s deputy president nominee ahead of the 6th Triennial Delegates Conference (TDC) next month.
The get-together session held in Sibu last Monday (September 1) saw nine divisions from the Rajang Basin, comprising Sibu, Julau, Pakan, Kanowit, Song, Katibas, Kapit and part of Selangau, bringing along their delegates to show their backing for Snowdan.
In his speech, Snowdan, who is also the party’s present Youth chief, welcomed the participants, saying: “The fact that you come here in large numbers speak volume of your strong and tremendous support. Thank you for your presence.”
He also explained his reasons for contesting the deputy president post, saying that there is a need for a blend of younger leaders to compliment our seniors party members.
“My vision is clear, which is to make the party more relevant, vibrant and proactive in government policymaking by rejuvenating the party, ensure there is balance of power in the party and amongst the region, blending seniors with the younger generation and also empowering the youth into mainstream politics.
“We are now in the era of what matters in policymaking and its impact on our everyday life. Projects are now the norm, and policies must take their course on these issues,” he said.
Baleh Assemblyman and Baleh Division’s Deputy Chairman, Nicholas Kudi, said Snowdan has the experience and vision to move the party forward.
“He is vocal in social media, insisted on having open contest during the supreme council meeting, and this is a sign that democracy thrives in the party,” he said.
Kudi further pointed out that a person with capability and experience like Snowdan should be given a chance to lead.
“His vision and mission is clear and in fact he could go higher,” he said.
Meanwhile, PRS Dudong Division’s Chairman, Councillor Sempurai Petrus Neglai, agreed that there needs to be a combination of youth and experience leaders that could rejuvenate the party.
“What Snowdan had been doing for the party is always ahead and in front. Come our annual general meeting (AGM), we in Dudong know who to support. This is a family contest,” he said.
Bukit Assek Division’s Chairman, Councillor Jackson Jugah, said he had no objection to Snowdan’s nomination, noting that their support would be represented at the TDC.
Similarly, village chief Minggang from Meluan, who attended with ten members, praised Snowdan for his experience and willingness to step down from his Youth chief post.
“He is gentleman enough to let go of his Youth chief post. There is no reason for us not to support him,” he said.
Chairman from Machan, Andam Abong, and his members are of the opinion that they should give chances to the younger batch of leaders to capitalise on their current knowledge and know-how.
As for village chief Lawrence Liman, representing Bukit Goram, said they are giving their full support to Snowdan by virtue of his notable contributions and ability to lead.
Tamin representative, Penghulu Andrewson Ngalai, stressed the need for change, saying: “We cannot be static, status quo all along. Thus, Datuk Snowdan should go up too.”
Village chief Ukau from Pelagus also pledged his unwavering support for Snowdan, citing that it was timely for a change in leadership.
