Sarawak PKR chief Roland Engan, however, defended Iswardy’s claim that it was ready to challenge ruling coalition Gabungan Parti Sarawak at the polls if it gets the green light.

“(PBB vice-president Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah) himself said prior to the 15th general election that any political collaboration would only be discussed or formalised after the polls and not so much about any pre-election pact.

“So, it is a free-for-all contest, and we will leave it to the wisdom of Sarawakians to decide their next government,” Roland told FMT.

He also quoted GPS chairman Abang Johari Openg as saying that the coalition would contest all 82 seats and that it was unnecessary to discuss the seat allocations with Pakatan Harapan, which PKR is a part of, on this.

Roland was commenting after Karim said last week that he saw ill intentions in Sarawak PKR’s insistence on fielding candidates at the next state assembly election.

He said Iswardy’s remarks reflected Sarawak PKR’s “feelings” towards GPS.

Roland, however, dismissed any such suggestion.

“In fact, PKR members are advised to help in disseminating information on the government’s initiatives and facilitate applications for government aid,” he said.

Roland said PKR’s main priority now is to strengthen Sarawak PKR and make its presence felt throughout the state.