KUCHING: The Election Commission (EC) has put up notices proposing the creation of 17 new state constituencies and the renaming of 10 state seats and one federal constituency in Sarawak.
The notice, to be displayed until Sept 30 at several district offices throughout the state, allows the public to submit objections to the proposed electoral boundary changes.
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It was also published on Tuesday (Sept 1) in local newspapers Utusan Borneo and Borneo Post.
According to the notice, the proposals follow the EC's review, conducted under Clause (2) of Article 113 of the Federal Constitution, of Sarawak's division into federal and state constituencies.
The proposed changes would increase the number of Sarawak state constituencies from 82 to 99, subject to the completion of the electoral review process.
The 17 proposed new state constituencies are Jagoi, Pasir Pandak, Matang, Semarak, Tabuan Jaya, Maong, Samarindah, Sungai Serin, Igan, Tanah Mas, Sungai Merah, Bukit Kemuyang, Melekun, Batu Niah, Permaisuri, Tudan and Usun Apau.
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The 10 state constituencies proposed for renaming are: Opar to Serayan; Tasik Biru to Singai; Tarat to Bung Sadung; Semop to Muara Lassa; Jemoreng to Matu; Bawang Assan to Rassau; Jepak to Jepak Jaya; Lambir to Pantai Beraya; Senadin to Lopeng; and Ba'kelalan to Gunong Murud.
At the federal level, Batang Lassa has been proposed as the new name for the parliamentary seat currently known as Igan.
The proposed addition of 17 state seats follows the passing in July last year of the State Legislative Assembly (Composition of Membership) Bill 2025, which provides for the increase from 82 to 99 seats.
The current Sarawak state government's mandate expires in February next year. – Bernama
