The Sarawak Party coalition is ready to face the 13th Sarawak People's Congress

KUCHING, 17 Oct: The Sarawak Union Party (GPS) is preparing for the 13th Sarawak State Election (PRN) scheduled to be held later this year.

The party's chief spokesman, Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, said the expectation was made based on the expiry of the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly (DUN) term.

However, he said that the decision regarding the dissolution of DUN is subject to the discretion of Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, while the date setting for the election is under the jurisdiction of the Election Commission (EC).

According to him, GPS is preparing for the upcoming PRN and believes that the coalition can cope with political competition, including from opposition parties.

"Our preparation, thank God, we know this is an election year and I dare say we are ready.

"I also dare to say, not only GPS, the opposition is ready", he said during a press conference after the Dayak Daily Writing Awards ceremony here today.

Abdul Karim was asked to comment on the allegations of certain parties who expected the Sarawak PRN to be held on December 19.

Commenting on the GPS preparations, he said that the coalition will face elections unitedly and is confident of being able to retain control of all DUN seats based on the performance of its representatives.

She also anticipated changes in the GPS candidate list, including giving women and youth leaders opportunities.

He said the election of candidates will take into account the performance of existing representatives as well as the need to make changes to ensure that the coalition continues to gain voter support.

He said the unre-nominated MPs are expected to continue supporting the newly elected candidates in the interest of the party.