Election negotiations all ‘water under the bridge’, Nanta stays tight-lipped on next move

Nanta during his address at the opening ceremony of the inaugural Malaysian Regional Geotechnical and Engineering Conference (MRGEC) 2026 on June 17, 2026. Photo credit: JAPEN

By Amanda L

KUCHING, June 17: Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) secretary-general Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi has put to rest lingering election rumors, affirming he still has the energy to serve actively despite keeping his upcoming roadmap under wraps.

Addressing ongoing media reports regarding State election (PRN) candidate negotiations, Nanta categorized previous discussions surrounding his political alignments as “water under the bridge.”

He emphasized that his primary focus remains firmly on executing his ministerial duties and delivering regional development.

“What has been speculated or written about past candidate arrangements is all water under the bridge now.

“The political landscape shifts but my dedication to public service has never wavered,” he told reporters during a press conference today following the opening ceremony of the inaugural Malaysian Regional Geotechnical and Engineering Conference (MRGEC) 2026.

Previously, GPS chairman Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg stated that the coalition has not yet formally discussed Nanta’s potential move to a State constituency, noting that candidate lineups will only be settled through internal party talks at the appropriate time.

According to the Premier, any decisions regarding leadership participation or potential candidates will only be finalized through official party discussions when the time comes.

When pressed today on his future political trajectory, Nanta who is also the secretary-general of Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB), stayed tight-lipped about specific seat defense plans or a potential transition to State-level politics.

He instead noted that any long-term strategy would be decided collectively by the top GPS leadership at the appropriate time.

“I still have the energy and the drive to contribute meaningfully to the people, whether at the federal level or otherwise.

“For now, my portfolio at the Works Ministry demands my full attention and we have major milestones to hit for our national infrastructure,” he explained.

He urged party members and observers to disregard old speculative narratives and look forward to the coalition’s unified development agenda. — DayakDaily