Kuching: A recent incident in the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly (DUN) involving a Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) minister who was reportedly snoring during proceedings has sparked criticism, with Pending assemblywoman Violet Yong Wui Wui calling it a disgrace to the institution’s integrity.
The minister was told to “stop snoring” by none other than Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, who was delivering his concluding speech at the time.
Assembly “Not a place for napping”
Violet Yong minced no words in her response to the incident. She said such behavior disrespects the solemn nature of the Assembly and undermines its role as the cornerstone of Sarawak’s democratic process.
“The Assembly, as the body for legislation, public discourse, and safeguarding the people’s rights, holds a sacred status that should never be trampled upon, belittled, or disregarded.
“It should never become a place for “resting one’s eyes,” public napping, or other unrelated activities,” she said in a statement.
Violet Yong pointed out that the minister’s blatant snoring disrupted the proceedings and forced Abdul Karim to call him out in a manner that embarrassed not just the individual, but the entire Assembly.
“Ignoring the speaker on the floor is disrespectful both to oneself and to others. Let alone when it’s a minister’s concluding speech on matters of importance to Sarawak.
“I believe that any responsible minister or assemblyperson should pay attention and respond appropriately at the right time, so as not to betray the trust and mandate of the people,” Violet Yong said.
Call for accountability and better leadership
She added that for Sarawak to progress, it needs more truly responsible political workers who are willing to put in greater effort.
“If some leaders are unable to perform their duties competently, for the future of Sarawak, they should step down immediately and let more capable individuals take over, rather than cling to power and delay Sarawak’s development,” she said.
She also urged the people to open their eyes and scrutinize the representatives they have elected — to see what kind of image they present in the Assembly.
“Sarawak needs leaders who get things done, not people’s representatives who sleep during Assembly sessions,” she said.
Opposition under strain, but still serving
In fact, compared to ruling party members, the daily political workload of the opposition is heavier.
“Especially in Sarawak, where authoritarian politics are rampant, the opposition often faces various forms of “power bullying,” humiliation, ridicule, and even slander from the ruling party and its behind-the-scenes operatives.
“Beyond participating in legislation and oversight, and voicing the concerns of the people, the opposition in Sarawak also has to take on the work that irresponsible local councils and assembly members neglect particularly on issues affecting the people’s livelihoods,” Violet Yong added.
She emphasised DAP’s “non-constituency service” model, where problems are addressed regardless of geographical boundaries, so long as the issue impacts the public.
Snoring and health – Not a laughing matter
Violet Yong also took a pragmatic angle in addressing the snoring issue, saying it should not be dismissed as trivial.
She shared findings from a quick medical search through Google, highlighting that loud snoring could indicate underlying health concerns.
“Medical information indicates that there are eight common causes of snoring: older age, obesity, long-term smoking or drinking before bed, a small or recessed jaw, use of sedatives or sleeping pills, nasal conditions, and enlarged tonsils,” she noted.
Violet Yong suggested that those who snore, including political leaders, should consider getting a thorough health check for their snoring condition.
“If there is no underlying problem, that’s great but if there is, it can be treated early to restore health,” she said.
Concluding her remarks, Violet Yong called for measures to ensure the Assembly remains a space of dignity, discipline, and purpose.
