Use limited speaking time in Parliament to maximise state’s benefits, S’wak MPs told

MIRI (July 20): Sarawak United Peoples’ Party (SUPP) Central Youth Publicity and Information secretary Kelvin Hii said Sarawak MPs should use their limited speaking time in Parliament to maximise benefits for the state rather than addressing other issues.

In expressing this, he said all Sarawakian MPs in the unity government should unite to fight for the state’s interests.

“During the parliamentary debate on the devolution of Bintulu Port authority, Sarawak DAP chairman Chong Chieng Jen deviated from the topic, criticising Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian’s remarks about the federal government not releasing RM100 million for school and clinic repairs.

“This raises questions about whether it’s political posturing,” he said in a press statement yesterday.

Hii suggested since Chong had the opportunity to speak, he should have advocated for the RM100 million allocation related to the federal Education Ministry.

“If DAP truly prioritises Sarawak’s interests, they should use every opportunity to secure funds, not just comment on media statements.

“During Chong’s speech, Deputy Speaker Alice Lau reminded him twice that his remarks were off-topic, however Chong persisted,” he said.

He added the behaviour prompts the public to ponder whether DAP is genuinely representing the people’s interests or simply seizing opportunities to attack other parties.

Hii pointed out Dr Sim, who is SUPP chairman, had informed reporters about Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s promise on the RM100 allocation, stating they have yet to receive the funds and that the Sarawak government continues to pursue it.

He emphasised the comment was meant to inform the public about the situation and reassure them that Sarawak would continue to fight for their interests.

“There is nothing wrong with this approach as it was people-centred, while DAP seemed strategically-focused on attacking other parties in Parliament,” he said.

Hii said the Sarawak government is always striving to secure the state’s rights, with the devolution of the Bintulu Port management being a significant benefit for the people, demonstrating Sarawak’s commitment to asserting its rights.

“The government continues to pursue educational and healthcare rights under the MA63 agreement.

“We hope DAP will cooperate with the Sarawak government to secure more rights for the state rather than pursuing other motives,” he said.