But analysts warn that a clean sweep may erode checks and balances
KUCHING: A strong showing by Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) in the coming state election could bring further economic progress and political stability, but an overwhelming victory may weaken checks and balances, say experts.
Political observer Datuk Peter Minos said Sarawak’s economy could grow further if GPS secures a decisive victory, paving the way for more roads, bridges and public infrastructure, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas.
He said political stability and social harmony would also be strengthened, helping to keep Sarawak free from racial and religious extremism.
“If GPS wins well, it will indicate to all political parties in Malaysia that moderation, reasonableness and goodwill can triumph.
“There is no need to be extreme or rough in politics for we are all Malaysians and we need each other, during and after elections,” he said.
Sharing a similar view, civil society group The Sarawak Initiatives chairman Datuk John Tenewi Nuek said the state could continue to enjoy political stability, economic progress, racial harmony and inclusivity if GPS retains power.
“The coming election is important as it will determine whether the current government retains the mandate and support of the people, as well as the moral basis to govern,” he said.
Another expert, Prof Datuk Dr Jayum Jawan, however, warned that a GPS clean sweep would be a “frightening” prospect.
“Power corrupts; absolute power corrupts absolutely. There cannot be checks and balances when all lawmakers answer to one superior,” he said.
The Academy of Sciences Malaysia Fellow also cautioned that an overwhelming mandate could make a ruling party arrogant and unresponsive to the people’s needs and concerns.
“It has been observed that lawmakers from the various component parties did not adequately represent the needs of their areas.
“Most were ready to please instead of presenting the genuine interests, concerns and issues plaguing their respective constituencies,” he said.
GPS comprises Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu, Sarawak United People’s Party, Parti Rakyat Sarawak and Progressive Democratic Party (PDP).
In the 2021 state election, the coalition won 76 of the 82 seats, while four went to the now-defunct Parti Sarawak Bersatu (PSB) and two to DAP.
GPS’ ranks were subsequently strengthened when three PSB assemblymen joined PDP after the party was dissolved in 2024, while another left to become a GPS-leaning Independent.
The Sarawak Legislative Assembly was dissolved on Oct 26, paving the way for the 13th state election.
On the pursuit of Sarawak’s rights under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), John and Minos said a strong mandate for GPS would strengthen the state’s efforts to secure them.
“For a better relationship between the Federal Government and Sarawak, it is of utmost significance that MA63 issues be settled once and for all.
“Hopefully, this will be done after the state election,” Minos said.
John said GPS is likely to pursue Sarawak’s MA63 rights more vigorously if returned to power.
“It is likely to continue to negotiate for what is due to us,” he said.
However, Jayum argued that a strong state government would not necessarily have greater bargaining power in reclaiming MA63 rights.
He said the state has yet to secure permanent concessions from the current administration, despite being a key political ally.
“An increased annual allocation for Sarawak in Budget 2027 cannot be used to demonstrate this because the allocation can vary depending on who is prime minister at the material time,” he added.
