DAP Sarawak Arang Road branch proposes full challenge to reclaim SUPP seats in next Sarawak election

Soo Tien Ren

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, Oct 2: The Democratic Action Party (DAP) Sarawak’s Arang Road Branch has proposed a full challenge against the Sarawak United Peoples’ Party (SUPP) in urban and semi-urban constituencies for the 13th Sarawak Election, with the goal of reclaiming SUPP-held seats in the Sarawak Legislative Assembly.

In a recent meeting, Branch chairman Soo Tien Ren outlined this strategic direction, emphasising that by winning seats in these areas, DAP Sarawak could strengthen its influence and foster closer cooperation between Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) and the national DAP.

This, he believes, would enhance communication between the Sarawak and Federal governments.

“This effort will also contribute to Sarawak’s broader strategy of opening up to the world.

“Once our connection with the Federal government is solidified, we can advocate for East Malaysian leaders to be considered as candidates for the next Prime Minister. To achieve this, East Malaysia must find strategic partners in West Malaysia,” he said in a statement today.

Soo highlighted DAP’s long-standing commitment to dismantling Barisan Nasional’s (BN) authoritarian rule, noting that the 2018 victory marked a significant milestone.

He stressed that DAP Sarawak should lead the national DAP in making Sarawak the focal point of creating a new ‘Malaysian Malaysia’—a vision of equality that transcends race, region, and religion.

“The vision of a ‘Malaysian Malaysia’ ensures that all citizens, regardless of ethnicity, have equal opportunities, reduces burdens on middle-income families, and protects working- and middle-class individuals from exploitation,” he said.

As it stands, DAP Sarawak currently holds two State seats namely Padungan and Pending, while SUPP occupies 13 seats, which include Batu Kawah, Batu Kitang, Kota Sentosa, Opar, Simanggang, Repok, Meradong, Tanjong Batu, Piasau, Senadin, Bukit Assek, Pelawan, and Pujut.

At the parliamentary level, DAP Sarawak has five seats namely Bandar Kuching, Stampin, Sibu, Lanang, and Mas Gading. SUPP holds the Serian and Sarikei constituencies, while Miri is represented by Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR).

The 13th Sarawak Election must be called before April 15, 2027. — DayakDaily