KUCHING: While discussions continue over the timing of the next Sarawak State Election, many voters are placing greater importance on issues affecting their daily lives, including the cost of living, employment opportunities, infrastructure, healthcare, and youth development.
Several respondents said the timing of the election remains important, particularly in ensuring voter participation and accessibility, but stressed that the policies and priorities offered by political parties would ultimately influence how they cast their ballots.
Staff nurse Gabriel Unjil Ngitar, 25, said the election should neither be rushed nor unnecessarily delayed.
“I think the election should be held at a time that allows adequate preparation for both voters and candidates.
“It should not be rushed, as voters need enough time to understand the issues and evaluate the candidates,” he said.
He added that the focus should be on ensuring a fair and transparent election process rather than political advantage.
Beyond election timing, Gabriel said issues such as economic development, employment opportunities, healthcare, education and infrastructure would influence his voting decision.
Pupil-in-chamber Jeffery Ling Li Jie, 24, said election timing should comply with constitutional requirements while remaining sensitive to the realities faced by Sarawakian voters, particularly those working or studying outside the state.
“Many of them are not able to vote by post and would need to return physically to their constituencies to vote.
“Therefore, election timing should consider when these voters are most likely able to travel back,” he said.
Jeffery said economic concerns would play a major role in determining how he casts his vote.
“Although it has been highlighted that Sarawak is one of the higher-achieving or higher-earning states in Malaysia, many ordinary Sarawakians do not feel that this translates into direct improvements in their daily cost of living, income opportunities, and overall standard of living,” he said.
As a voter from Sibu, he also expressed concern over the issue of brain drain and called for greater attention to local development and basic amenities.
Construction industry practitioner Michael S. Enchang, 43, suggested that November would be an appropriate period for Sarawakians to head to the polls, saying it would minimise disruption to businesses while allowing voters sufficient flexibility to travel.
“We just had the Gawai break, and the next major break will be in December for Christmas and New Year.
“Between now until October, many businesses will be working towards achieving their annual targets,” he said.
Michael also highlighted the social aspect of elections in Sarawak.
“The election is a major event and most of us will be gathering among ourselves, friends and families, discussing and exchanging opinions while waiting for the election results,” he said.
He added that balanced development throughout the state remains among the key factors influencing his vote and expressed hope for continued improvements to water quality and supply.
Chairman of Kelab Belia Proaktif Lubuk Bukut, Jawing Chunggat, 39, said the timing of the election should be left to the discretion of the state leadership.
“We should leave it to the wisdom of our Premier to decide the best time for the state election,” he said.
Jawing hopes political parties will place greater emphasis on youth-centred policies, particularly in education, job opportunities, affordable housing, and the rising cost of living.
He also called for a healthy and respectful campaign environment, free from mudslinging and personal attacks.
While views differed on the ideal timing of the next state election, the respondents shared a common expectation that elected representatives focus less on political rhetoric and more on delivering meaningful outcomes that improve the lives of ordinary Sarawakians.
