logo
Wong: Increasing DUN seats to 99 ensures fairer representation for all Sarawakians

Wong: Increasing DUN seats to 99 ensures fairer representation for all Sarawakians

Borneo Post07-07-2025
Wong debates the Dewan Undangan Negeri (Composition of Membership) Bill, 2025. – Penerangan Photo
KUCHING (July 7): The proposed increase in Sarawak constituencies from 82 to 99 will pave the way for fairer voter distribution and more equitable representation for all Sarawakians, said Dato Sri Wong Soon Koh (GPS–Bawang Assan).
He said such a move will serve as a crucial step towards addressing the current imbalance between urban and rural constituencies.
He pointed out that some urban constituencies now have over 30,000 voters, while certain rural areas have fewer than 10,000.
'In effect, this means that one vote in the rural areas carries three times more weight than the vote in urban areas.
'This margin of deviation challenges the very foundation of the principles of electoral fairness.
'One may say that this imbalance dilutes the value of votes and undermines the democratic principles,' he said when debating the Dewan Undangan Negeri (Composition of Membership) Bill, 2025 at a special sitting of the DUN here today.
Wong argued that the increase in constituencies would lead to smaller, more manageable areas, making it easier for elected representatives to serve their constituents effectively, especially in rural and remote parts of the state.
'More constituencies mean closer representation and more focused delivery of development projects.
'It means that each elected representative can attend more directly to the needs of the people, from infrastructure to education, health, agriculture, and economic empowerment,' he said.
He added that reducing the geographical size of each constituency would also improve accessibility and visibility in areas where development has long lagged behind due to logistical challenges.
Wong also called for the redelineation exercise to better align electoral boundaries with district and sub-district administrations.
Citing his constituency as an example, he said some outlying polling districts fall under different district jurisdictions such as the lower Batang Igan areas which come under Matu District.
'It is hoped that in the forthcoming redelineation exercise, steps are taken to align electoral boundaries with district administration to streamline governance and public delivery.'
Wong further stressed the importance of preserving community and ethnic cohesion during the process.
'We must know that Sarawak is home to a rich mosaic of ethnic groups and indigenous communities.
'In the forthcoming redelineation, we must ensure that no community is artificially divided, or its voice diluted.
'Where possible, constituencies should reflect the cultural and communal identity of the people, be they Iban, Bidayuh, orang Ulu, Malays, Melanaus or Chinese,' he said.
Wong said the proposal in the increase in the state's constituencies also reflected Sarawak's continuing commitment to the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).
'We in Sarawak have long called for a more equitable representation, not only in our own state assembly but also in Parliament.
'An expanded and more representative DUN is consistent with the spirit of partnership and equality under MA63, and it will also strengthen our voice and our autonomy as one of the founding regions of Malaysia,' he said.
He described the proposed increase to 99 seats as 'balanced and practical,' representing a 20 per cent growth that is substantial enough to make a difference, yet not excessive to strain the assembly's administrative structure.
'It is enough to correct the existing imbalance, but not excessive to raise concerns about over-politicisation or administrative strain,' he said.
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

58th AMM Highlights ASEAN's Balancing Act Amid Superpower Rivalry
58th AMM Highlights ASEAN's Balancing Act Amid Superpower Rivalry

Barnama

time3 hours ago

  • Barnama

58th AMM Highlights ASEAN's Balancing Act Amid Superpower Rivalry

Analysts believe that the engagement by both powers reflects ASEAN's growing strategic importance amid shifting global dynamics, with China projecting a stable diplomatic approach and the US seeking to re-establish trust in the region. KUALA LUMPUR, July 25 (Bernama) -- The presence of China and the United States (US) at the 58th ASEAN Ministerial Meeting (AMM) and Related Meetings has reinforced the grouping's zest to maintain regional peace and neutrality amid rising superpower rivalry and heightened Malaysia's diplomatic credibility as a trusted partner and future bridge-builder among competing powers. Similarly, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio's presence at Kuala Lumpur signalled Washington's endeavour to re-establish ties with Southeast Asia as a security and economic partner, more so after the chaos caused by America's sweeping tariffs, most of which will take effect come August. Amid renewed geopolitical competition, an analyst opined that China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi's active engagement reflected Beijing's evolving foreign policy posture and its desire to align with ASEAN's principles of peace and neutrality. 'Wang's participation was a productive time for China. It was an opportunity to show its international standing and willingness towards dialogue,' said Dr Rowena Abd Razak, a historical consultant and an Associate with IMAN Research (A Kuala Lumpur-based think tank which focuses on the domains of protective security, peacebuilding and sustainable development). She noted that China's reiteration of support for the Zone of Peace, Freedom and Neutrality (ZOPFAN), along with Wang's meeting with Rubio, demonstrated Beijing's openness to working within international frameworks. Undoubtedly a feather in the cap for ASEAN, 'these moves undeniably showcased China's ability to play a savvy foreign policy game - one that is markedly different from perceived US aggression and the unpredictability of (Donald) Trump's presidency,' she said. Rowena added that Wang's conduct during the meetings reflected an alignment with ASEAN's aspiration to maintain peace and advance a nuclear-free Southeast Asia. Despite China being an economic superpower and Southeast Asia's dependence on the Chinese economy, Wang's approach also showed deference to ASEAN centrality and Malaysia's role as the regional bloc's Chair this year, she said. From an economic perspective, she said Beijing is capitalising on the region's growth potential, mainly as the US adopts increasingly protectionist policies. She cited the proposed upgrade of the China-ASEAN Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA 3.0) as reflecting Beijing's vision of deeper integration with the region. 'Beijing sees ASEAN as an important zone of trade and exchange, particularly amid growing US economic isolation,' she said, referring to the debilitating tariffs imposed on ASEAN member states. 'Wang is expressing Beijing's view of ASEAN's importance and positioning China as a champion for the region,' she added. WASHINGTON RECOVERS LOST GROUND Concurring with Rowena, Universiti Malaya (UM) Security and International Relations analyst Collins Chong Yew Keat said this year's AMM served as a platform for ASEAN to assert its relevance amid intensifying great power competition. Rubio's attendance reflected Washington's attempt to re-engage the region more consistently and rebuild strategic trust. He attributed this to the US attempting to recover lost ground and re-establish itself as a security and economic partner. 'This year's meetings marked a turning point in US efforts to restore credibility and demonstrate dependable support for ASEAN centrality, especially after years of transactional diplomacy. 'While China's rise has been structured and steady, the US is now working to show it remains committed to ASEAN's future,' he said. Rubio's reaffirmation of support for ASEAN principles – neutrality, regional autonomy, and freedom of navigation – was significant, especially amid tensions in the South China Sea and the Taiwan Strait. 'The emphasis on shared values, rules-based order and connectivity offered by Rubio provides a needed contrast to China's assertiveness,' he added. Still, Collins said ASEAN must balance engagement with both powers without eroding unity or compromising neutrality. MALAYSIA ACTS AS A BRIDGE-BUILDER Collins also said this year's AMM tested ASEAN's strategic maturity as the global order becomes more fragmented. It seemed to have passed with flying colours. He said Washington's clearer messaging and sustained high-level participation reflected an understanding that past diplomatic absences had created a vacuum increasingly filled by China. 'ASEAN is now in the spotlight to prove that it remains a relevant and cohesive force amid competing frameworks like the Quad, a grouping comprising Australia, India, Japan and the US and AUKUS, the trilateral security partnership between Australia, the United Kingdom and the US. 'There is now recognition in Washington that inconsistency has damaged trust in the region,' he said. Looking ahead, Collins said that Malaysia's ASEAN Chairmanship for the remainder of 2025, especially at the upcoming summit and with leaders of dialogue partners, possibly including US President Trump, will be pivotal in steering the bloc through a complex regional environment. He added that Putrajaya, Malaysia's federal administrative capital, has the diplomatic credibility to act as a trusted interlocutor between competing powers. 'Malaysia must step forward as a bridge-builder to ensure ASEAN remains cohesive while promoting inclusive, rules-based cooperation with all major powers. 'Malaysia's leadership will be critical in strengthening ASEAN mechanisms, advancing economic resilience and anchoring strategic convergence based on mutual respect and autonomy,' he said. Wang participated in key sessions during the AMM, including the ASEAN-China and ASEAN Plus Three (APT) meetings. Rubio, on his first official visit to Asia, participated in the ASEAN-US Foreign Ministers' Meeting and held bilateral talks with Wang on the sidelines. The meetings, held from July 8 to 11, were hosted under Malaysia's 2025 ASEAN Chairmanship, with the theme 'Inclusivity and Sustainability'. -- BERNAMA BERNAMA provides up-to-date authentic and comprehensive news and information which are disseminated via BERNAMA Wires; BERNAMA TV on Astro 502, unifi TV 631 and MYTV 121 channels and BERNAMA Radio on FM93.9 (Klang Valley), FM107.5 (Johor Bahru), FM107.9 (Kota Kinabalu) and FM100.9 (Kuching) frequencies. Follow us on social media : Facebook : @bernamaofficial, @bernamatv, @bernamaradio Twitter : @ @BernamaTV, @bernamaradio Instagram : @bernamaofficial, @bernamatvofficial, @bernamaradioofficial TikTok : @bernamaofficial

Sarawak a model of unity in diversity, says National Unity Minister
Sarawak a model of unity in diversity, says National Unity Minister

Borneo Post

time5 hours ago

  • Borneo Post

Sarawak a model of unity in diversity, says National Unity Minister

Saraswathy strikes the gong to mark the official opening of Sambutan Minggu Perpaduan 2025. SIBU (July 26): Sarawak continues to exemplify how ethnic and cultural diversity can be a unifying strength rather than a dividing barrier, said National Unity Minister Dato Sri Aaron Ago Dagang. His message was delivered by Deputy Minister Senator Saraswathy Kandasami during the state-level launch of Sambutan Minggu Perpaduan 2025 at Dataran Tun Tuanku Haji Bujang here today. Hundreds gathered for the unity-themed cultural celebration. 'Sarawak is the best reflection of how cultural and ethnic differences are not hindrances, but rather the strength that binds its people together,' Aaron said. He noted that the diverse ethnic communities in Sarawak including the Iban, Bidayuh, Malay, Melanau, Orang Ulu, Chinese, and many others have long embodied harmonious living built on mutual respect and shared traditions. 'In this land, respect and manners are not just practised, but deeply ingrained. 'The sense of mutual regard transcends ancestry, religion, and geography,' he said, adding that Sarawak has gone beyond tolerance to embracing diversity with pride. Aaron commended Sarawak for becoming a model of unity that the rest of Malaysia could emulate, particularly at a time when the world is facing cultural conflicts and identity politics. 'In a world shaken by identity crises and cultural clashes, Sarawak stands as a beacon of hope – a society that teaches us unity doesn't mean uniformity, but celebrating differences with empathy and respect,' he emphasised. Highlighting the ministry's broader objective of fostering national cohesion, Aaron said efforts are underway to develop a comprehensive framework for building a stronger Malaysian identity – one that is inclusive and grounded in shared values. He acknowledged that one of the key challenges to national unity lies in the continued reliance on ethnic lines for daily interactions and identity formation. 'According to the National Unity Index, ethnicity continues to be a major social deficit, often limiting meaningful interaction across communities,' he noted. Addressing this, he urged for the creation of an inclusive national identity that transcends ethnicity, uniting Malaysians through common values and shared purpose in line with the Malaysia Madani vision. The event featured ethnic performances, cultural exhibitions, traditional games, and youth programmes designed to strengthen grassroots unity. It came following last week's national-level Unity Week celebration in Penang, officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. Aaron called on all Malaysians to move beyond symbolic unity celebrations and embrace unity as a genuine 'national movement that stirs the conscience of the people'. 'Let us make this Unity Week not just a yearly festivity, but a rallying call to build a future where we stand together as one, united in diversity, grounded in Madani values,' he said. Also present was Ngemah assemblyman Anyi Jana, who delivered the welcoming address. Aaron Ago Dagang diversity Sibu unity

97 Miri groups receive RM601,100 in MRP grants to boost community development
97 Miri groups receive RM601,100 in MRP grants to boost community development

Borneo Post

time5 hours ago

  • Borneo Post

97 Miri groups receive RM601,100 in MRP grants to boost community development

Lee (second left) presents an MRP cheque for Musolla Al-Azhar of Lutong Fire Station, received by station chief Henry Jugah. MIRI (July 26): A total of 97 non-government organisations (NGO), associations, religious bodies, and clubs here have been awarded Minor Rural Project (MRP) grants amounting to RM601,100. The grants were presented by Sarawak Transport Minister and Senadin assemblyman, Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin, during a two-session ceremony today, due to the high number of recipients. In his speech, Lee emphasised the importance of unity and inclusivity, urging all people – regardless of race or background – to work together as one community. 'Unity among all Sarawakians is the most important factor in driving the state's continued development and prosperity,' he said. 'Whether you are Penan, Kelabit, Orang Ulu, Indian, Malay, or Chinese; if you are born and live here, you are Sarawakian,' he added. Lee noted that the MRP grants are meant to complement existing government programmes, particularly in promoting unity and creating more job and business opportunities. He also praised Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg for the state's ongoing infrastructure transformation, citing the successful completion of 16 bridges statewide. 'We now have 16 completed bridges fully funded by the Sarawak government – no more ferries, even long bridges over one kilometre have been built,' Lee said. He also announced that a 17th bridge has been approved for Miri, stretching 1,850 metres from Miri Golf Club to the Miri City Council area. 'Miri tidak kalah lah (Miri is not left behind),' Lee quipped. 'I told our Premier that Bintulu has its iconic bridge, so Miri deserves one too.' Lee also thanked the residents of Miri for their support in making the recent Sarawak Day celebration a success. 'All the events went smoothly with the cooperation of everyone. Well done to the people of Miri,' he said.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store