GPS sec-gen confirms Sarawak heading to State election this year, exact timing under wraps

Nanta (left) sharing his views with Wong during The Breakfast Grille on BFM 89.9 on Jan 29, 2026.

By Karen Bong

KUCHING, Jan 29: Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) and Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) secretary-general Dato Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi confirmed that Sarawak is heading to a State election this year, but the exact timing remains under wraps, with the decision resting with the Premier.

Speaking on The Breakfast Grille on BFM 89.9 today, Nanta, who is also Works Minister and Kapit MP, said Sarawak is constitutionally due for its next state election, as the current assembly’s five-year term makes an election inevitable.

“I think of course because the last election we had was five years ago. Yes, by constitution. This year, when? Don’t ask me. 2026, I think definitely. But which month? That one will have to be the prerogative of the Premier (Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg) to say so,” he said.

Pressed by presented Wong Shou Ning for a possible clue on the timing, Nanta firmly declined: “I’m not going to give you a hint. No, I’m not going to give you a hint.”

On the prospects of another landslide victory for GPS, Nanta played down suggestions of a guaranteed walkover despite the coalition’s dominance in the State.

“I don’t think there will be a walkover 100%,” he said, noting that Sarawak currently has 82 State seats.

He pointed out that the Sarawak Legislative Assembly had already approved an increase of 17 additional seats last year, which would bring the total to 99 constituencies, pending endorsement by a simple majority in the Dewan Rakyat.

“If that is done, then we will have 99 seats,” he said, expressing confidence in GPS’ strength. “I think we still win with a big majority.”

Sarawak’s last State election was held in December 2021, where GPS secured a commanding mandate, reinforcing its grip on the State’s political landscape. — DayakDaily