THE proposed expansion of the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly from 82 to 99 seats is vital to strengthening representation, bridging rural-urban gaps, and supporting Sarawak’s socio-economic growth, Tebedu assemblyman Dr Simon Sinang Bada told the State Assembly today as he voiced full support for the Composition of Membership Bill 2025.
During the debate on the Dewan Undangan Negeri (Composition of Membership) Bill, 2025 at the Special Sitting of the Sarawak Legislative Assembly today, Dr Simon expressed strong support for the Bill, highlighting five key justifications for the increase.
He noted that the number of registered voters has steadily grown from 979,796 in the 2011 state election to over 1.25 million in the 2021 polls, making equitable representation increasingly challenging.
“With more seats, smaller or previously underrepresented communities will have a stronger voice in the assembly, ensuring laws and policies reflect the needs of Sarawak’s diverse population,” he said.
He stressed that an expanded assembly would enhance accessibility and responsiveness of the government, particularly for rural communities like those in Tebedu, which often feel disconnected from state-level governance.
“A greater number of representatives will mean better direct engagement with constituents, allowing faster responses to issues such as infrastructure, education, healthcare and environmental concerns,” Dr Simon said.
Additionally, he also pointed out that the move would enable more targeted and balanced development across constituencies, helping to reduce regional inequalities and accelerate Sarawak’s goal of achieving developed status by 2030.
Furthermore, Dr Simon argued that increasing the number of assembly members would strengthen democracy and promote political stability by creating opportunities for new leaders, encouraging healthy competition, accountability, and innovation.
“Ensuring that no group feels politically marginalised is essential for maintaining social harmony and stability,” he added.
He described the proposal as a forward-looking strategy to future-proof Sarawak’s governance as the state’s population and economy continue to grow; an expanded assembly would provide the institutional capacity to manage a larger, more urbanised, and more connected society in the years ahead.
Dr Simon said increasing the number of seats is not merely an administrative exercise, but a necessary step towards inclusive, efficient, and equitable governance.
“It is a necessary step towards a more inclusive, efficient and equitable governance.
“By increasing representation, ensuring better access to elected leaders, balancing development and enhancing democratic participation, this move can lay a stronger foundation for Sarawak’s socio-economic progress and political unity,” he said, expressing full support for the Dewan Undangan Negeri (Composition of Membership) Bill, 2025.
