(Kuching, 19th) Sarawak Progressive Democratic Party (PDP) president Dato Sri Tiong King Sing today reiterated that all Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) component parties must continue to uphold the spirit of cooperation. During the appointment process of community leaders and village/longhouse chiefs (KMKK), established consensus and procedures should be followed to ensure that mutual trust is not compromised.
Tiong, who is also the Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, pointed out that grassroots feedback indicates some doubts exist regarding the appointment and implementation process of certain community leaders. Although these issues may appear minor, they are actually crucial to the public’s trust in the system.
He made these remarks at the GPS Convention 2026 held at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) in Kuching.
Tiong stated that in certain constituencies managed by PDP, there have been some "undesirable developments" during the KMKK selection process, including so-called behind-the-scenes operations whereby minority opinions overturn majority decisions.
He pointed out that such situations have not occurred in areas managed by other component parties such as PBB, PRS, or SUPP.
"On the contrary, we are often marginalized," he said, referring to situations in PDP constituencies.
Despite raising these issues, Tiong emphasized that PDP remains firmly supportive of the alliance framework and has no intention of creating division.
"We believe in the existing system and governance structure. What I am saying today is not to confront anyone but to uphold the cooperative foundation we have built together within GPS," he said.
He added that while his remarks may be uncomfortable to some, speaking the truth is necessary to strengthen the unity of the alliance.
Looking ahead, Tiong stressed that all component parties must ensure consistent execution of established mechanisms in order to maintain mutual trust.
"This is not a problem for any single party, but rather about strengthening the system we have built together, and ensuring all component parties operate with the same spirit," he said.
He pointed out that as part of the GPS leadership, all parties have a responsibility to ensure the alliance remains solid, credible, and earns the trust of the people.
"Trust does not exist automatically. It has to be won and maintained time and again. This is not the end, but a long journey," he concluded.
He made these remarks at the GPS Convention 2026 held at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) in Kuching.
Tiong stated that in certain constituencies managed by PDP, there have been some "undesirable developments" during the KMKK selection process, including so-called behind-the-scenes operations whereby minority opinions overturn majority decisions.
He pointed out that such situations have not occurred in areas managed by other component parties such as PBB, PRS, or SUPP.
"On the contrary, we are often marginalized," he said, referring to situations in PDP constituencies.
Despite raising these issues, Tiong emphasized that PDP remains firmly supportive of the alliance framework and has no intention of creating division.
"We believe in the existing system and governance structure. What I am saying today is not to confront anyone but to uphold the cooperative foundation we have built together within GPS," he said.
He added that while his remarks may be uncomfortable to some, speaking the truth is necessary to strengthen the unity of the alliance.
Looking ahead, Tiong stressed that all component parties must ensure consistent execution of established mechanisms in order to maintain mutual trust.
"This is not a problem for any single party, but rather about strengthening the system we have built together, and ensuring all component parties operate with the same spirit," he said.
He pointed out that as part of the GPS leadership, all parties have a responsibility to ensure the alliance remains solid, credible, and earns the trust of the people.
"Trust does not exist automatically. It has to be won and maintained time and again. This is not the end, but a long journey," he concluded.