Dr Annuar Rapaee
SIBU: The formation of Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) is a landmark achievement in the history of the state’s political development, said Dr Annuar Rapaee, who described the coalition as a new entity to allow Sarawakians to decide their own future.
The Assistant Minister of Education and Technological Research also said GPS is the beacon for Sarawakians, representing all the different ethnic groups in the state.
“GPS is totally different from BN (Barisan Nasional) because we are not under any national umbrella. Therefore, we have more freedom to carry the voices of ‘anak Sarawak’.
“Hence, the formation of GPS is an important landmark in the history of Sarawak politics after Independence and post May 9 general election.
“It is now that we in Sarawak manage to create a new entity among all races in this state that is truly ‘anak Sarawak’, so that we can decide our own future. GPS is the beacon for all Sarawakians, irrespective of races,” he told The Borneo Post yesterday when asked his view on GPS.
In this regard, the Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) vice-president urged young Sarawakians to come forward and join hands to ensure the success of GPS.
He added: “The quest for ‘anak Sarawak’ to lead Sarawak does not mean we are anti federal or anti Malaya because it is a norm that every state in Malaysia wants to give its own state a priority and that is actually part of the spirit in a federation.
“As such, we as ‘anak Sarawak’ will make sure Malaysia will continue to be united not only among states but among all races and religious beliefs.”
Dr Annuar, who is also the Assistant Minister of Housing and Public Health, urged the council of leadership for GPS to open its door to every Sarawakian who wishes to join the struggle, especially the young generation.
He said by having a direct membership and after certain years they can choose to join any component party of GPS.
“GPS should also accept non-governmental organisations (NGOs) who have similar aspiration of putting Sarawak first as affiliate members,” he suggested.
GPS was formed in June last year, comprising local political parties, namely PBB, Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS), Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) and Progressive Democratic Party (PDP).
These parties used to be under BN, but quit the coalition following the 14th general election on May 9 last year.