GABUNGAN Parti Sarawak (GPS) has accepted Michael Manyin Jawong’s decision to not defend the Tebedu seat in the upcoming 12th Sarawak state elections.

GPS chairman and Sarawak Chief Minister Abang Johari Openg said he respects Manyin’s decision and his intention of giving way to a younger candidate.

“We are grateful to Manyin and his service to the state, government and people for five terms as assemblyman and Sarawak minister,” he said at a media conference after officiating at the opening of the new Serian Division Administration Complex today.

Manyin, 76, who is also state education, science and technological research minister, announced his intention not to contest in the elections on Tuesday. He first won the seat in 1996 and was re-elected four times throughout his 25-year tenure as assemblyman.

“I have been talking (about not contesting in the elections) since last year,” Manyin told the media at an event at the time.

Abang Johari said GPS has identified a candidate to replace Manyin but declined to reveal the candidate’s identity today.

He expressed confidence that GPS will win all the eight Bidayuh-majority seats – Opar, Tasik Biru, Serumbu, Mambong, Tarat. Tebedu, Bukit Semuja and Kedup – as the constituents have been strong supporters of the incumbent state government.

He also announced that the Siburan subdistrict will be upgraded into a full district with Balai Ringin as subdistrict.

He said the decision was made at a recent state cabinet meeting.

He added that following the change, Siburan will receive the necessary facilities befitting a district and similar facilities will be provided for Balai Ringin. – Bernama, November 27, 2021.