Abang Jo in Gedong proof of his commitment to bring changes

KUCHING: Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) president Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg's candidacy in the Gedong constituency in the 12th Sarawak state election is proof of his commitment to bring changes to the area.

Situated about 90 kilometres from Kuching, Gedong has been recognised as a new district that will enjoy better infrastructure and more organised development, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (Unimas) lecturer Dr Ammar Redza Ahmad Rizal said.

He feels that Abang Johari is able to bring about thorough changes in Gedong based on his excellent performance in developing Sarawak since he was appointed Chief Minister.

"The presence of Abang Johari will open up more development opportunities for the local community, with infrastructure development to be more organised as well as opportunities to boost agriculture-based activities," he told Bernama.

In the state polls this Saturday, Abang Johari will be up against Mohamad Sofian Fariz Sarbini of Parti Sarawak Bersatu (PSB), Kamal Bujang of Parti Amanah Negara (Amanah) and Tomson Ango of Parti Bumi Kenyalang (PBK).

Meanwhile, Kampung Hulu Gedong village head Busrah Ahmad was confident that Abang Johari will defeat his three challengers with a big majority as they are less experienced and new to the political arena.

"In my opinion, Abang Johari has a good chance of securing a landslide victory because over 70 per cent of residents in this area have shown clear support to the Chief Minister as their representative," he said.

Busrah added that the people were also wondering about the whereabouts of the other three candidates as they have not been seen conducting face-to-face campaign activities despite the permission given by the Election Commission.

"If we look at campaign materials or the flags of contesting parties (other than GPS), there were less than 200 flags mounted in this area which shows that they are not quite active in their campaign activities," he said.

Commenting on the future of Gedong as a new district, Busrah said the recognition would boost the development in the area and create many job opportunities for youths.

In 2016, the Gedong seat was won by Datuk Mohd Naroden Majais who contested under a Barisan Nasional ticket with a 3,365-vote majority, defeating Rapelson Richard Hamit from Amanah and Independent candidate Uja Bunsi.

Gedong has a total of 7,208 registered voters.

-- BERNAMA