Sarawak voters need to uphold democratic checks and balances, says Alan Ling

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Alan Ling urging voters to exercise political wisdom and uphold checks and balances in governance.

Miri: DAP Sarawak secretary Alan Ling has urged voters in the state to exercise political wisdom and maturity, highlighting the importance of a balanced government in serving the people’s best interests.

“In a healthy democratic system, space must be given for dissenting views and rigorous scrutiny, like it or not,” Ling said in a statement.

Using local governance as an example, he noted that a complacent government without strong checks and balances often fails to take public complaints seriously, losing its sense of urgency on issues that matter most to the people.

He emphasised that voters play a key role in ensuring accountability and preventing a government from becoming overly dominant, which can ultimately hinder effective governance.

At the same time, Ling thanked DAP members and supporters for their continued loyalty. “No doubt the road ahead is tough, but we will persevere. This is a political struggle worth fighting. It may be long and lonely, but it is worthwhile,” he said.

DAP Sarawak currently holds two of the 82 state seats: Padungan, through the chairman, Chong Chieng Jen, and Pending, through Violet Yong, while the party continues to strengthen its presence and advocate for robust democratic practices in the state.

Ling also highlighted the recent setback in Sabah, where DAP lost all eight seats it contested, including long-held constituencies.

“Many are predicting DAP Sarawak could face a similar fate, with some even questioning the party’s relevance in the state.

“Some netizens, particularly pro-Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS), have suggested Sarawak should have zero opposition, essentially calling for a total wipeout of DAP,” he said.