Datu Dr Penguang Manggil
MIRI (Dec 1): Marudi incumbent Datu Dr Penguang Manggil is expecting a five-cornered fight in the coming polls, including a showdown with the seat’s former assemblyman, Datuk Sylvester Entri Muran, who is expected to contest on the Parti Sarawak Bersatu (PSB) ticket.
Sylvester, a former assistant minister, had represented Marudi for about two decades before he was dropped in favour of the Progressive Democratic Party (PDP) vice-president in the 2016 state election.
“I was told it could be a five-cornered fight but I am not bothered by the numbers. The more the merrier as this proves that democracy is alive,” Penguang told The Borneo Post when asked who he could face in the polls on Dec 18.
He welcomed the election, saying a fresh mandate was necessary for him to roll out more of his plans in the predominantly Dayak constituency in northern Sarawak.
“As the first term incumbent I still have a lot of unfinished business. I have not fully executed my plans and my vision and my dream is to make Marudi on par with other more developed districts in the near future.
“More work needs to be done to improve road connectivity, treated water and electricity supply, internet connectivity and better social facilities and amenities apart from boosting socio-economic activities in the seat,” said Penguang who was Local Government and Housing Assistant Minister.
Besides PSB, Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR), Parti Bumi Kenyalang (PBK) and Parti Bansa Dayak Sarawak Baru (PBDSB) have all voiced their intention to contest in Marudi where Penguang will be defending the seat under the Gabungan Parti Sarawak logo.
The potential candidates are Elias Lipi (PKR), property consultant Pierre Gilbert Young (PBK) and retired headmaster Sawing Kedit ( PBDSB).
Entri, however, is expected to be Penguang’s main contender in the polls after he was replaced in 2016 due to a leadership tussle which saw Entri leaving PDP’s predecessor, the Sarawak Progressive Democratic Party, for Parti Tenaga Rakyat Sarawak (Teras).
Entri could not be contacted for comments.