KUCHING: The declaration of a state of emergency in the nation will enable the government to focus on combating the Covid-19 pandemic without interference from any political or apolitical entities, said Local Government assistant minister Datuk Dr Penguang Manggil.
He said the state of emergency would also prevent any political parties from undermining or distracting the government in its efforts to control the virus and stop any power grabbing at the federal level.
“I strongly believe that before such a declaration, the King must have been well advised and had taken into consideration all aspects of the public safety and the economy,” he said today (Jan 12).
The Marudi assemblyman said the state of emergency would ensure no snap election or state election until Aug 1, the end of the emergency period, or even earlier if the King was satisfied that the pandemic situation was well under control.
“This means that the 12th state election will not be held until after the end of the current term of the State Legislative Assembly (DUN),” he said.
Penguang said the existing Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) government would continue to function without any interruption except that there would be no DUN sitting or parliamentary sitting.
“In my view, the emergency will not affect the strength of GPS. In fact, it will strengthen its position as the ruling government. It will also allow all projects that have been planned to be implemented until the state election,” he added.
Penguang said the emergency would also enable the state government to tackle its number one enemy, Covid-19, so that the election could be held safely and peacefully.
“Therefore, it is up to the people to evaluate the performances of the GPS government and to elect whichever party or government they think fit best to rule the state to ensure uninterrupted development.
“The emergency will also ensure we achieve our goal of making Sarawak a developed and high income state by 2030,” he said.
