PETALING JAYA: Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg today announced the dissolution of the Sarawak Legislative Assembly, effective Oct 26.
He said the dissolution had received the consent of Sarawak Governor Tun Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar following discussions on matters concerning the state’s interests, including the tenure of the legislative assembly.
“Indeed, in accordance with Article 21(2) of the Constitution of the State of Sarawak, the Yang di-Pertua Negeri has consented to the dissolution of the DUN, effective Oct 26, 2026,” he said at a special press conference here today.
Under Article 21(4) of the Sarawak Constitution, a state election must be held within 60 days of the dissolution, while the newly elected assembly must convene within 120 days.
“The dates for nomination and polling will be determined and announced by the Election Commission,” he said.
Abang Johari said the state government would continue to discharge its responsibilities in a caretaker capacity, in accordance with the applicable constitutional requirements and conventions.
“Public administration and essential services will continue to ensure that the needs and welfare of the people remain attended to,” he said.
He said the 19th Sarawak Legislative Assembly first convened on Feb 14, 2022, and would ordinarily serve a five-year term from the date of its first sitting unless dissolved earlier.
“As we approach the completion of this term, it is only appropriate that a new mandate from the people is obtained,” he said.
He added that Sarawakians should have the opportunity to exercise their democratic rights and elect a government with a fresh mandate to continue the state’s development agenda.
Since receiving the people’s mandate at the Dec 18, 2021 state election, Abang Johari said his government had worked to advance Sarawak’s development, strengthen its economy, improve infrastructure and public services, and safeguard the state’s rights and interests under the Federal Constitution and the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).
“Such achievements are the manifestation of the GPS government’s efforts to improve the well-being of our people for a better future for Sarawak,” he said.
Abang Johari also called on political parties, candidates and supporters to respect the law and maintain peace throughout the election period.
“Let us maintain the harmony of Sarawak that we appreciate. At the same time, let the people make their choices freely and with full confidence for the future of Sarawak,” he said.
He thanked Sarawakians for their trust and support throughout the current term, as well as assembly members, the public service and the media for their contributions.
At the last state election on Dec 18, 2021, Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS), led by Abang Johari, won 76 of the 82 seats contested. Parti Sarawak Bersatu (PSB) secured four seats, while DAP won two.
