Alexander Nanta keen on State seat within Kapit after nearly 30 years as MP

Dato Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi

By Shikin Louis

KUCHING, May 9: Federal Works Minister Dato Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi has expressed interest in continuing his political career at the Sarawak level, particularly in a State constituency within the Kapit parliamentary area, after serving nearly 30 years in Parliament.

Nanta, who is the Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) secretary-general, said he would consider making the move if given the opportunity and approval by party leadership.

“I have been in Parliament for almost 30 years.

“If there is an opportunity and permission from the party leadership, perhaps I would also like to continue my political service at the State level,” he told reporters when met at PBB headquarters in Jalan Bako here today.

When asked whether he had a specific constituency in mind should he contest a State seat, Nanta replied: “In Kapit.”

The longtime Kapit MP also hinted that he may not defend the parliamentary seat in the next general election, saying it could be time to pass the baton to younger leaders.

“My aspiration is that perhaps the time has come for me to hand over to the younger generation.

“We already have people prepared in our programme should they be needed,” he said.

Nanta has represented Kapit in Parliament since 1999 and currently serves as Federal Works Minister.

His remarks are likely to fuel speculation over a possible shift from federal to State politics ahead of the upcoming elections. — DayakDaily