GPS assemblymen condemn racial politics to fish for votes
KUCHING: Three Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) assemblymen have condemned continuous efforts by a candidate in the Betong parliamentary constituency who is allegedly using racial politics in his attempt to fish for votes among the Malay voters here.
Mohd Razi Sitam (Saribas), Datuk Ibrahim Baki (Satok) and Fazzrudin Abdul Rahman (Tupong) joined GPS Betong candidate Dr Richard Rapu on his second and final campaigning rounds at Kampung Belingan and Kampung Sebemban in Spaoh here yesterday, speaking against the dangers of racial politics in a multiracial multireligious society like Sarawak.
“We have multiracial leaders in GPS and they have not only complimented but augmented each other’s efforts in nation building process perfectly. For Sarawak to continue developing, our unity, harmony and stability are the crucial prerequisites,” said Ibrahim.
He added that exploiting racial issues was like playing with fire, saying: “When it gets out of control, it can be very disastrous.”
Meanwhile, Fazzrudin in his speech said there were about 30 different ethnic groups in Sarawak that have all been living together in perfect harmony and unity.
“But I am sad to note that there is a move to use racial issues in fishing for votes in Betong. This is not only irresponsible but very dangerous too, as it can impact the people negatively.
“Let us all nip this in the bud. GPS will fight to the end any effort to wreck Sarawak racial and religious harmony and unity,” he said.
The trio also said although Betong parliamentary constituency consists of Layar, Bukit Saban and Saribas which have been traditional fortresses for the government, they were not leaving anything to chance.
“As our Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg had said, he wants as many GPS representatives in parliament. We want to make sure this happens,” Ibrahim said.
There are about 200 longhouses and 24 Malay villages aside from a few Chinese households in the Betong parliamentary constituency.
Dr Richard will be facing Pakatan Harapan’s Patrick Kamis and independent candidate Hasbie Satar.