GPS cites governance record as foundation of political legitimacy, basis for continued mandate

Uggah speaking at GPS Convention 2026 held at BCCK on April 19, 2026.

By Amanda L

KUCHING, Apr 19: Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) has positioned its governance track record as the foundation of its political legitimacy, presenting itself as the only coalition capable of sustaining Sarawak’s stability and long-term development.

Speaking at the GPS Convention 2026 held at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) today, Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) deputy president Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said GPS’ leadership claim is anchored in its local roots and years of governance experience in the State.

He said this foundation enables the coalition to remain closely attuned to public needs, particularly in addressing rural infrastructure gaps involving roads, water supply, electricity, education and economic opportunities.

“This proximity to ground realities ensures that policy direction prioritises local needs over external considerations, which forms part of GPS’ governance strength,” he said.

Uggah, who is also Deputy Premier, said this approach has contributed to Sarawak’s continued political stability alongside ongoing economic transformation driven by investments in renewable energy, the digital economy and large-scale infrastructure development.

He added that initiatives in hydroelectric power and hydrogen development reflect a long-term strategy to reposition Sarawak within emerging global energy and technology sectors.

On federal-State relations, Uggah said GPS has remained consistent in pursuing Sarawak’s rights under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), particularly in relation to oil and gas resources, which has strengthened the State’s fiscal position.

He said the improved financial capacity has enabled broader development planning and implementation across key sectors.

Beyond economic policy, he pointed to political stability and social cohesion as central pillars of Sarawak’s progress, saying unity among the State’s multi-ethnic and multi-religious communities continues to support investor confidence and sustained growth.

Looking ahead, he said the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030 serves as the State’s main long-term framework, targeting high-income status through inclusive development.

He said the strategy is designed to ensure development benefits are shared across all communities, while maintaining policy continuity and long-term planning direction.

The Deputy Premier stressed that Sarawak’s development path is not defined solely by infrastructure expansion, but also by the protection of rights, dignity and self-determination.

“With strong public support, Sarawak is not only capable of progressing, but also of becoming a model of a self-reliant, competitive and united State,” he said, adding that GPS remains the only coalition with the track record, capacity and vision to take Sarawak into its next phase of development. — DayakDaily