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Borneo Post
07-07-2025
- Politics
- Borneo Post
Wong: Increasing DUN seats to 99 ensures fairer representation for all Sarawakians
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.
Borneo Post
19-05-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Wan Junaidi: Federal nod for Petros as sole gas aggregator a major win for Sarawak
Wan Junaidi is welcomed by Sarawak Police Commissioner Datuk Mancha Ata during his arrival at the DUN complex today. – Penerangan Photo KUCHING (May 19): The federal government's agreement to Sarawak's appointment of Petroleum Sarawak Berhad (Petros) as the sole gas aggregator in the state marks a significant step forward in upholding Sarawak's constitutional rights and economic aspirations, said Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar. In his opening address at the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) Sitting here today, the Head of State described the move as a milestone in Sarawak's pursuit of greater control over its resources. 'I am thankful that the Prime Minister and the federal government have agreed to Sarawak's decision to appoint Petros as the sole gas aggregator in Sarawak, under the Distribution of Gas Ordinance, 2016, which grants the Sarawak government both executive and legislative powers to enact laws related to electricity and gas distribution. 'This is in line with the recommendations of the 1962 Inter-Governmental Committee (IGC) Report, which were implemented through the Borneo States (Legislative Power) Order, 1963, issued by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong under Article 95C of the Federal Constitution,' he said. He stressed this constitutional right must be respected to enable Petros to fulfil its role as the gas aggregator, ensuring that the development of the gas industry in Sarawak continues to contribute to both the national and state economies. 'I hope the collaboration between Petros and Petronas can be finalised soon, as it will certainly bring significant benefits to the development of the oil and gas industry value chain in Sarawak, for the shared prosperity of both the nation and Sarawak,' he said. Wan Junaidi said a close relationship between the Sarawak government and federal government is crucial in ensuring that Sarawak's rights and development needs are fully addressed. He expressed gratitude for the cordial ties between the two levels of government, stating that many issues involving Sarawak's rights and interests have been successfully resolved as a result. 'I am confident that this strong relationship will ensure that Sarawak receives all the entitlements stipulated under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), the IGC Report, the Federal Constitution, and the Sarawak Constitution.' He called on the federal government to expedite the resolution of all outstanding claims made by Sarawak, so that they can bring meaningful benefits to both the state and the country. 'I also urge the federal government to fulfil its responsibilities towards Sarawak in terms of economic, social and security development. 'The sincerity and commitment of the Prime Minister through the Malaysia Madani principle will undoubtedly have a positive impact on efforts to nurture the spirit of 'Segulai Sejalai' (Together in Unity) towards inclusive development in Sarawak,' he said.
