Party veteran Sikie, who is Kakus assemblyman, fended off a strong challenge from Pelagus assemblyman Wilson Nyabong Ijang, obtaining 186 votes to 154, The Borneo Post reported.

Sikie, a state minister in the premier’s department, is the first PRS leader to become president in a contested election. He succeeds Joseph Salang Gandum, who declared in August that he would not seek re-election.

Salang took over the presidency in 2021 after the death of PRS founder James Masing.

Samalaju assemblyman Majang Renggi is expected to become deputy president following the withdrawal of Balai Ringin assemblyman Snowdan Lawan from the contest.

Sri Aman MP Doris Sophia Brodie was re-elected women’s wing leader, and Tamin assemblyman Christopher Gira Sambang as the new PRS Youth chief.

Senator Rita Sarimah Patrick Insol was elected one of five vice-presidents, joining four incumbents who were re-elected: Hulu Rajang MP Wilson Ugak Kumbong, Belaga assemblyman Liwan Lagang, Bukit Begunan assemblyman Mong Dagang, and Kanowit MP Aaron Ago Dagang.