Democracy under threat narrative reflects DAP Sarawak's desperation to stay relevant, claims Yap

Borneo Post

12-05-2025

Wilfred Yap – Photo by Chimon Upon
KUCHING (May 12): The state Democratic Action Party's (DAP) narrative of 'democracy under threat' is a desperate attempt to remain relevant despite its declining influence in Sarawak, claimed Kota Sentosa assemblyman Wilfred Yap.
The Sarawak United People's Party (SUPP) lawmaker said the fact DAP had been reduced to just two seats in the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) proved Sarawakians rejected its brand of politics.
'DAP's insinuation that Sarawak's political landscape is undemocratic due to the strength of Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) is a gross misrepresentation of the will of the people and the realities of good governance of Sarawak GPS under the visionary and exceptional leadership of Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg,' Yap said in a statement today.
The statement was in response to DAP Sarawak's stance during its recent Kuching branch annual general meeting.
According to Yap, DAP's claim that Sarawak GPS' strength was becoming 'unhealthy' for democracy is a flawed argument.
He opined democracy is not measured solely by the number of opposition seats but by the competency, accountability, and transparency of GPS leaders in the progress, development, stability, and prosperity of Sarawak, while caring for the welfare of its people.
He opined Singapore's political scenario is irrelevant because the foreign country's political system is fundamentally different.
'The 10 seats won by the Opposition in Singapore exists in a tightly controlled political environment where Opposition voices are often stifled by legal and systemic barriers.
'In contrast, Sarawak's democracy is organic and GPS's dominance reflects public confidence, not suppression,' he said.
Yap stressed GPS' overwhelming mandate was a result of proven governance reflected in unprecedented infrastructural development, rural electrification, as well as socially inclusive and visionary economic policies that benefit all Sarawakians regardless of race or religion.
He said GPS, unlike DAP, is a homegrown coalition that prioritises Sarawak's interests and legitimate rights under the Malaysia Agreement 1963, Oil Mining Ordinance 1958, and Distribution of Gas Ordinance 2016.
He labelled DAP as a peninsula-based party with little understanding of Sarawak's unique needs.
'The suggestion that GPS operates without oversight is also false. We have institutions like the federal Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission and DAP is part of the federal government with over 40 parliamentary seats.
'Accountability is ensured through internal party discipline whereby GPS leaders are answerable to party mechanisms and to their constituents, not to mention the freedom of the press to expose any wrongdoings,' he said.
As such, Yap said Sarawak 'does not need DAP's brand of opposition' and called on Sarawakians to remain united under GPS since the coalition government has delivered results.
'Sarawakians want development, unity, and progress, not DAP's political theatrics,' he added. DAP Sarawak gps lead Wilfred Yap