KUCHING: The Sarawak State Legislative Assembly is set to be dissolved on Monday, Oct 26, 2026, paving the way for the 13th state election.
Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg announced the dissolution at a special press conference at the Satria Pertiwi Complex here this afternoon.
He said the decision was made after obtaining the consent of Sarawak Governor Tun Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar.
“The Governor has consented to my request to dissolve the Assembly in accordance with Article 21(2) of the Constitution of the State of Sarawak, with effect from Oct 26.
“Therefore, in accordance with Article 21(4) of the Constitution, the State Election must be held within 60 days from the date of the dissolution,” said Abang Johari.
Abang Johari, who is also Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) chairman, said the Election Commission (EC) will be formally notified of the dissolution to enable the necessary arrangements to be made.
“During this period, the Government will discharge its responsibilities in a caretaker capacity, observing 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.
The current term of the 82-seat State Assembly is due to expire in February 2027.
In the Dec 18, 2021 state polls, 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.
Following PSB's dissolution in 2024, three of its elected representatives joined the Progressive Democratic Party (PDP), a GPS component party.
The fourth opted to become an independent assemblyman.
GPS comprises Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB), Sarawak United People's Party (SUPP), Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS) and PDP.
