SIBU: Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) secretary-general Alexander Nanta Linggi has dismissed claims that the Dayak community is being marginalised in the Sarawak administration, stressing that members of the community continue to be entrusted with key positions at both the state and federal levels based on merit.
He said the allegation, which is often raised ahead of state elections, is merely a narrative aimed at dividing the people and weakening the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) government.
He added that many Dayaks currently head key agencies and institutions, including government-linked companies, government departments, statutory bodies, security agencies and federal ministries.
“How can anyone claim that the Dayak community has been sidelined when so many Dayaks hold important positions in the state and federal administration?
“The reality is that PBB and GPS have always upheld the principle that every qualified Sarawakian should be given the opportunity to serve, regardless of race,” he said when speaking at the PBB central zone special convention here today.
Nanta, however, acknowledged that there is still room to improve inclusiveness in the administration so that the issue can no longer be manipulated by certain parties.
He said championing the interests of one’s own community is not wrong, but it should not be done by inciting racial sentiments or hatred towards other communities.
“We can defend the interests of our respective communities, but we must not resort to racial approaches that create hatred. That is something we cannot accept,” he said.
On preparations for the Sarawak state election, Nanta reminded the party machinery to prioritise discipline, loyalty and unity, saying victory cannot be achieved through slogans alone.
He also urged GPS leaders and members to remain committed to the coalition’s neutral stance on political developments in Peninsular Malaysia and instead focus on Sarawak’s development agenda.
“We have a development agenda for Sarawak that must be carried forward. What is important is ensuring that the federal government remains stable so that Sarawak’s development agenda can be implemented smoothly,” the federal works minister said.
He also called for all PBB members to return to their respective areas with renewed spirit to strengthen the party, ensure PBB remains the backbone of GPS and secure a bigger mandate in the next state election.
