When the Sabah State Election was announced, many Malaysians expressed their concerns of holding an election during a pandemic would lead to the rise of Covid-19 cases. Post-Sabah elections, these concerns proved to be legitimate as we have now seen new 3-digit cases daily for the past 3 days!
However, it seems that not all of us have learnt the lesson. Just yesterday, Sarawak Chief Minister, Datuk Abang Johari Openg said that Sarawak will hold its state election ‘any time from now’!
As reported by Malay Mail, Abang Johari, who is also the Chairman of Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS), the coalition that rules the state has made a clear indication that they are intending to extend their mandate as the ruling party in Sarawak. He was quoted of saying,
“I want to convey a message that the drum will be sounded. I have the wood on standby and also the drum on standby. When the drum is struck with the wood at any time from now, we must all go out to defend GPS in the election.”
Abang Johari said the above during a mini-convention in Sibu yesterday held by Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB), of which he is the president.
The Sarawak Chief Minsiter however did not disclose the specific date in which he intend to advice the Sarawak Governor, Tun Abdul Taib Mahmud to dissolve the State Legislative Assembly (DUN).
Unlike other states in Malaysia, Sarawak chose to have its state election at a different time then the Malaysian General Election. The current Sarawak Government has until next June to hold a State Election.
For the sake of all Sarawakians and Malaysians, let’s hope that the election will happen next year then!
Also read: More Politicians Test Positive For Covid-19 Including Deputy Minister of Water & Environment