In fact, Peter John Jaban, one of Sarawak’s most recognisable activists, said he was feeling “jaded”.

“There are so many parties contesting, fighting among themselves. They are all banking on the same issues and putting forth unknown candidates,” he told FMT.

Peter, who is the founder of Saya Anak Sarawak (SAS), said he had been approached by some parties on both sides of the divide to be a candidate.

“When I looked at the list of some of these parties’ proposed candidates, I recognised some of them. They are not associated with the struggle their parties claim to be fighting for, so I refused.”

The veteran activist, who has in the past been arrested and interrogated over demonstrations he organised, questioned the motives of the many parties contesting in the polls.

“I’m disappointed that the opposition parties seem to be more interested in fielding candidates instead of looking at the bigger picture.

“If we want to help Sarawakians, you don’t have to go to the state assembly. Go to the ground and educate people on the need for change first.”

He said many in Sarawak’s rural areas still lacked awareness of Sarawak’s rights and what was happening in the state.

“The political parties are only active during elections. In between, what are they doing for the people?

“So for me, I’m not interested in this election because I don’t see big changes on the horizon.”

Peter said he hoped voters would evaluate the track records of the parties and candidates contesting in their area and “do their part” by rejecting those who were not good for the state.