Kuching: DAPSY Stampin Chief Soo Tien Ren has raised concerns over the Sarawak United Peoples’ Party, warning that its treatment of party veterans could undermine public confidence.
His remarks follow recent statements by 90-year-old SUPP veteran Pung Teng Hong, who publicly highlighted alleged internal management problems and accused party leaders of disregarding the party constitution.
Describing Pung’s remarks as serious and alarming, Soo said it was deeply ironic that a long-serving party member had to step forward at such an advanced age to expose internal issues, despite having devoted his life to the party.
He noted that SUPP was once founded on reformist ideals similar to those of the Democratic Action Party, advocating fairness, justice, and respect for institutions.
“Such a political beginning should have meant a commitment to principles, respect for institutions, and appreciation for every individual who sacrificed for the party,” he said.
Soo said the apparent treatment of Pung reflects a broader decline in political values, adding that a veteran with decades of service seemed to have been met with indifference, disrespect, and even ridicule.
“This is not only saddening but also exposes how a party, after being in power for too long, may gradually lose its basic respect for history, loyalty, and its pioneers,” he said.
He stressed that the issue goes beyond internal party matters and raises fundamental questions about political integrity and accountability.
“The people can see clearly: if a party cannot even respect its veterans, how can the people believe that it will truly respect the people, respect institutions, and respect the future of Sarawak?” he said.
Soo warned that such actions could have wider implications for public trust, cautioning that a party willing to sideline its veterans might one day neglect the interests of the people.
“If SUPP can abandon its veterans today, it may abandon Sarawakians tomorrow for its interests. History will not forget, and the people are not blind,” he added.
Despite political differences, Soo expressed respect for Pung’s courage in speaking out, describing it as a defence not only of personal dignity but also of fundamental political principles and party institutions.
He added that public confidence could erode if political parties fail to honor loyalty and contributions, especially those of long-serving members.
“If even a veteran who devoted his life to the party can be treated with disregard, then the people will no longer ask such a party, which shows no respect for history and loyalty, to represent them,” he said.
