Wong (third left) receives the party banner together with the PSB southern region branch chairmen and organising committee members. — Photo by Muhummad Rais Sanusi
KUCHING: Parti Sarawak Bersatu (PSB) will not adopt a confrontational stand to claim back Sarawak’s legitimate rights and interests from the federal government, its president Dato Sri Wong Soon Koh said.
The Bawang Assan assemblyman said the political party will arm itself with facts, figures and data and present its stand steadfastly with the federal government, to convince them on building a progressive Malaysia based on equality, justice and mutual respect.
“Our PSB approach is therefore that of quiet, patient negotiations, fully aware of the fact that each of the component territories and the federal government have their pride and sensitivity that have to be respected,” he said during a Chinese New Year dinner organised by PSB southern region branches at KTS Garden here last night.
Wong stressed the party will ensure that Sarawak will not be made victims of unfair and unjust actions and policies, and will resolve issues in the spirit of cooperation and good-will.
He said at the end of the day, whatever is good for the state of Sarawak will be good for the entire country, adding he is confident the experienced Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad understands the strong local sentiment of the people in the state.
Should PSB sense there is no spirit of give and take, or that the interests of Sarawak are being sacrificed for political expediency, he said they will not hesitate to signal their opposition and take the necessary strong actions.
Being the single, largest independent party with no affiliation to any political parties, Wong remarked that PSB can contest in as many seats as possible – even in all 82 state constituencies – which would enable the party to become a force to be reckoned with.
“We can contest 50, 60 or even all the 82 seats in State Legislative Assembly. We will witness the flags of PSB raised in all parts of Sarawak,” he said while pointing out that PSB is a local-based political party whose members and founders are all from the state.
Wong urged communities to rally under the umbrella of PSB to make the party a strong and dynamic political force and to bring about a just and equitable balance to the people of all racial groups.
He added that the party has been receiving membership applications from people from all races, ranging from professors, doctors, lawyers, engineers and senior government officials.
“Let us not divide into factions; let us all unite together and, if God willing, when we get back the power, we will work hard for a just, fair and equitable economic and social balance.”
Wong also told those at the gathering that he would be making public PSB’s candidates for the next state election at the right time and place.