DAP man calls for equal funding, anti-hopping law in Sarawak

DAP man calls for equal funding, anti-hopping law in Sarawak

Dr Kelvin Yii says these are among the reforms he is seeking from the new state government.

DAP’s Batu Kawah candidate Dr Kelvin Yii says all elected representatives should receive the same amount in allocations to ensure no Sarawakian is left behind.
KUCHING:
DAP’s Batu Kawah candidate Dr Kelvin Yii has called on the next Sarawak government to implement several reforms in the state assembly, including equal allocations for all assemblymen and enacting an anti-hopping law.

Yii said this would benefit Sarawakians as it would ensure better governance of the state, adding that the voters deserve a stronger and more robust democracy.

“Regardless of whether an elected representative is from the government or opposition, they should receive the same amount in allocation as no Sarawakian should be left behind.

“Last, but not least, it is about time Sarawak introduced its own version of an anti-hopping law. The people have become increasingly jaded with the political process as politicians betray the mandate given by the people,” he said in a statement

The Bandar Kuching MP also called for the state assembly to sit for a longer period of time and for a chief minister’s question-and-answer time to be created.

He also suggested the formation of a special chamber to discuss specific matters involving constituencies and for Sarawak’s public accounts committee to be chaired by an opposition member.

Yii also wanted special select committees to be set up in the state assembly and for proceedings to be live-streamed.

“Sarawak’s future and the future of its people is closely tied to how it is governed. Good governance and a stronger check-and-balance mechanism will ensure the voice of Sarawakians continue to be upheld,” he said.

Yesterday, Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) chairman Abang Johari Openg skirted questions on equal funding and enacting an anti-hopping law after being queried by the media on GPS’ manifesto which pledged to ensure political stability and inclusion.

Abang Johari said it was too early for him to pledge equal allocations for all elected representatives as GPS did not have the mandate yet.

“I cannot give a definite answer. Wait until after Dec 18 (polling day).”

On party hopping, he said the Federal Constitution provided for freedom of association.

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