Ex-DCM wants SUPP, UPP to settle their differences
KUCHING: Former deputy chief minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Dr George Chan Hong Nam urged Barisan Nasional (BN) component parties to unite as one and go as one entity in the upcoming parliamentary election.
Dr Chan, who was referring to Sarawak United People's Party (SUPP) and United People's Party (UPP), said it was his wish for both parties to settle their differences and go into the election as one.
"We, after all, are all for the same reason, which is for the people," said Dr Chan – the former SUPP president – during his Chinese New Year open house on Friday.
"Personal interests, all those things should be put aside. The most important thing is for the party to be able to serve with a stronger voice," he stressed.
Dr Chan added that amid the rising voice for Sarawak to get back its rights under the MA63, it would be more difficult to achieve that goal and people would not be convinced if they sang in different tunes.
"I hope that they can be one party, one voice again. I also hope that the people too will stand behind the government led by Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg," he said.
Describing Abang Johari as 'Gung Ho' in getting back Sarawak's rights, Dr Chan said they should stand as one to give the Chief Minister a stronger mandate and voice.
When asked on whether he would assist SUPP in campaigning, Dr Chan said he would “if he is needed”. At his open house, Dr Chan welcomed the visits by Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud and wife Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Raghad Kurdi Taib, Abang Johari and wife Datin Patinggi Dato Juma'ani Tuanku Bujang, as well as Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan.