PSB-PDP merger will boost political landscape: Soon Koh

SIBU: With a potential merger between  Parti Sarawak Bersatu (PSB) and Progressive Democratic Party (PDP) in the air, Datuk Seri Wong Soon Koh, the PSB chief, said the move would align with both parties’ shared commitment to uplift the living standards and income of Sarawakians.

The proposed merger signals a strategic manoeuvre to bolster their political clout and foster a more unified approach in addressing the needs of Sarawak’s populace.

PSB boasts approximately 80,000 members and PDP around 100,000, which means the merger could significantly consolidate their influence within Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) and make PDP one of the largest parties in the state, he said.

Wong stressed that the union would enhance their capacity to serve the people more effectively.

The Bawang Assan assemblyman was speaking at a dinner gathering to celebrate Christmas and the new year 2024 which was attended by nearly 50 longhouse chiefs from Wong’s constituency, recently.

Wong said that the recent changes in the political landscape have compelled PSB to reassess the party’s role from a more realistic perspective, as it is necessary to enhance unity at the federal and state levels.

He explained PSB’s inclination to support the unity government led by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and also prioritise the people under Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg’s administration.

He said the shift in his party’s  political stance was evident during the recent State Legislative Assembly session, as PSB representatives no longer aligned with the opposition bloc, adding the party’s intention to collaborate with PDP to eventually become part of the government.

However, he admitted that the process would require time.

The dinner, organised by PSB Bawang Assan Bumiputera Unit chief Andrew Shilling saw the presence of key figures, including PDP Bawang Assan chief Kapitan Wong Hua.