KUCHING: The call for Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) to secure an overwhelming victory in both the upcoming state and parliamentary elections is rooted in more than electoral ambition.
According to political analyst Datuk Prof Dr Lee Kuok Tiung, the narrative is fundamentally about strengthening Sarawak’s bargaining power and safeguarding the state’s long-term development agenda under the “Sarawak First” philosophy.
Lee, an associate professor at the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, said the push to “win big” or even sweep all contested seats reflects a strategic calculation aimed at maximising Sarawak’s autonomy while reshaping the balance of power between East Malaysia and the federal government in Putrajaya.
He argued that an absolute or near-total mandate would provide the political stability needed for the GPS government to pursue its ambitious economic transformation plans without unnecessary disruptions.
Under Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, Sarawak has embarked on a series of bold initiatives that distinguish the state from the rest of the country.
These include the establishment of state-owned oil and gas company Petros, the takeover of Bintulu Port, the acquisition of a controlling stake in Affin Bank, the launch of AirBorneo, major investments in bridges and transport infrastructure, the development of green energy projects, and plans for a new international airport.
Lee said these are high-stakes economic interventions that require continuity in leadership and a strong public mandate to ensure they are implemented successfully.
He cautioned that a fragmented political landscape or stronger opposition presence, particularly from Peninsular Malaysia-based parties, could potentially slow or complicate the implementation of these strategic initiatives.
While acknowledging the importance of accountability in a democratic system, Lee suggested that what is often presented as “checks and balances” by some political opponents can sometimes become personal attacks aimed at discrediting political leaders rather than offering constructive policy alternatives.
Instead, he said political discourse should focus on providing meaningful ideas that contribute to Sarawak’s progress.
Lee noted that pioneering new policies inevitably involves an element of trial and error, but argued that innovation requires courage and political confidence.
“If you don’t try, you never know,” he said, adding that Sarawak’s growing revenue and continued progress in asserting its rights under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) demonstrate the benefits of pursuing an independent development path.
He also stressed that Sarawak should avoid importing the highly polarised political culture often associated with Peninsular Malaysia, maintaining that unity and political stability remain essential for advancing the state’s long-term interests.
