GPS: We supported Dr M – until he resigned as PM, Bersatu chair

KUCHING: Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) switched its support from Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad to Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin after the former resigned as prime minister and Bersatu chairman, says Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg (pic, in white).

The Chief Minister said the ruling state coalition initially supported Dr Mahathir to continue leading the country.

"After that he resigned. Then he resigned from Bersatu. After that he was back again. So left, right, left, right, what else to expect?

"That's why we supported Muhyiddin. At the same time, our Sarawak interest is uppermost," he told reporters after visiting the site of a proposed new Customs, Immigration, Quarantine and Security (CIQS) post at the border town of Serikin, about 55km from here, on Sunday (March 1).

Muhyiddin was sworn in as the eighth prime minister earlier Sunday, a day after his appointment by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong in accordance with Article 40(2)(a) and Article 43(2)(a) of the Federal Constitution.

A statement from the Chief Minister's Office on Saturday (Feb 29) said GPS supported Muhyiddin to restore political stability in the country without sacrificing Sarawak's interest.

It also said GPS would be friendly to the new Federal Government but was not a member of the Perikatan Nasional coalition.

Asked if the state government expected a better relationship with the new Federal administration, Abang Johari said it was still too early to say.

"He's just been sworn in. Give him time."

He also declined to answer whether Muhyiddin had given Sarawak a good deal.

"I don't know. I will tell you later. Just pray," he said.

To another question on Sarawak's hopes from the new Prime Minister, he replied: "Well, we have supported him. Now you know the value of GPS."