Kuching: Sim Kiang Chiok’s attempt to argue against term limits by warning of a so-called “start-stop governance cycle” reveals far more about SUPP’s obsession with clinging to power than any genuine concern for Sarawak’s future.
To suggest that leadership renewal undermines long-term planning is to insult both the civil service and the people of Sarawak.
Policies, institutions and development plans do not vanish simply because leadership changes.
What truly undermines governance is the concentration of power in the hands of the same individuals for decades, breeding complacency, entitlement and a dangerous belief that leadership positions are personal property.
SUPP’s argument becomes even more hollow when viewed alongside its own actions.
The party itself amended its constitution to remove the three-term limit for its president, allowing leaders to remain in power beyond what was previously deemed reasonable.
This shows that SUPP is all about preserving power at all costs.
A good leader does not need decades in office to leave a lasting legacy.
Sarawak has already seen this with the late Adenan Satem.
Despite serving for less than three years as Chief Minister, his vision and policies reshaped Sarawak’s political direction and continue to influence the state today.
His impact was defined by clarity of purpose and courage of conviction, not by the length of time he held power.
To suggest that leaders will not pursue long-term policies unless they can remain in office indefinitely is an admission of weak leadership.
True leadership is about building systems that outlast individuals, not clinging to office out of fear that progress will collapse without them.
SUPP’s resistance to term limits is not about Sarawak’s “unique development trajectory”.
It is about a refusal to let go of power and an unwillingness to trust the next generation of leaders.
True stability comes from strong institutions, clear vision and accountable leadership.
Sarawak deserves that leadership and not those who believe they must stay forever for Sarawak to succeed.
Michael Kong Feng Nian
DAP Sarawak Assistant Publicity Secretary
13 January 2026
