Abang Johari (seated, second left) and Chong share a lighthearted moment during the latter’s open house. Photo by Roystein Emmor
KUCHING: Democratic Action Party (DAP) Sarawak chairman Chong Chieng Jen sidestepped election queries when met at his Chinese New Year open house today.
He refused to comment on the possibility of the state election being held before Hari Raya Aidilfitri next year when asked by reporters to respond to a recent statement made by Assistant Minister in the Chief Minister’s Department (Corporate Affairs and Sarawak Public Communications Unit) Abdullah Saidol.
“Election issue I will not talk about it today and CM (Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg) is going to visit me. I don’t think it’s courteous to talk about the election.
“For today, I wish everyone Happy New Year, and I hope this coming year bring luck to everyone in Malaysia, in Sarawak,” he told reporters.
He also hope that the country will enjoy faster economic growth, and the continued harmonious relationship between all races and religion.
“We hope that we can come together to rebuild Malaysia as a powerhouse in economy, culture, education and in every aspect in South East Asia.”
His open house, held at the Christian Ecumenical Worship Centre in Stampin, was attended by some 1,000 people.
Recently, Abdullah told reporters that the next state election is expected to be held before Hari Raya Aidilfitri next year, before the current term of the State Legislative Assembly expires in July next year.
He said all Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) elected representatives are working very hard as they believe this year is going to be the last Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebration before the next state election.
Present were Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, Utilities Minister Dato Sri Dr Stephen Rundi,
Saidol, Pending assemblywoman Violet Yong, Bandar Kuching MP Dr Kelvin Yii and Padungan assemblyman Wong King Wei.