Chong, who is Padungan assemblyman, said Gabungan Parti Sarawak, which forms the state government, now had an opportunity to “prove its mettle” by showing that it does not practise race-based policies.

“I urge the state government to lead the nation by moving away from race-based policy to merit-based policy.

“Race-based economic policies should have no place in Sarawak,” he said in a Facebook post.

Chong pointed out that GPS officials hold the posts of deputy prime minister and five federal ministerships, and the state coalition has a strong influence over the federal government.

“More importantly, GPS is able to dictate the implementation of federal policies in Sarawak, given its kingmaker role in the formation of the federal government,” Chong said.

He cited the example of Putrajaya’s move to allow Sabah and Sarawak to decide on the implementation of any infrastructure project under RM50 million in their respective states, as announced in January.

The new AP policy was announced on Tuesday by the federal investment, trade and industry ministry (Miti). Starting on July 1, Bumiputera companies, even those that have never been involved in the automotive sector, may apply to become AP holders.

In a statement, Miti said the implementation of the new policy is expected to attract more Bumiputera companies to engage in the automotive industry and to make the segment more competitive.

The companies will still be subject to the main conditions for an open AP licence, of being a 100% Bumiputera-owned private limited company with a minimum paid-up capital of RM1 million, which has been in operation for at least two years.