Malaysia’s oil-rich Sarawak state will dissolve its assembly on Monday in a test of political strength for a powerful regional coalition whose support has become crucial to Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s government.
Anwar is facing growing pressure following electoral setbacks for his own coalition in Peninsular Malaysia, while over in Borneo, ruling Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) continues to press for greater autonomy and control over the state’s vast oil and gas resources.
Sarawak Premier Abang Johari Openg announced on Friday that state governor Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar had consented to dissolve the state assembly with effect from Monday, triggering an election that must be held within 60 days.
“As we approach the completion of this term, it is only appropriate that a new mandate from the people is obtained,” Abang Johari told a press conference in Kuching. “The people of Sarawak must have the opportunity to exercise their democratic right to choose and elect a new government with a fresh mandate to continue the development agenda of Sarawak.”