KUCHING, June 4 — Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) president Datuk Seri Dr Sim Kui Hian today pledged to make the state’s oldest political party remain relevant and reliable in serving the state and its people.
He said the party will continue to play an active role in mainstream politics through Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS).
“Over the last 64 years since it was born in Sibu in 1959, we have witnessed our ups and downs, just like the wheel of fortune, but because of the people’s continuous support, we are still around while many parties born after SUPP have gone,” he said at the flag-raising ceremony to mark SUP’s 64th anniversary at its headquarters here.
He said the party is no longer indulging in divisive politics, but is now more in solidarity that provides stability for it to move forward.
“We have over 120,000 members all over the state and they care for the party, having the same vision and mission as our past leaders, that is fighting for Sarawak,” Dr Sim said.
Dr Sim, who is also the deputy premier, said the party and its members need to adapt to the present situation to continue to remain relevant.
He said June 4 is not just to celebrate the anniversary, but is also a time for the members to regroup and re-evaluate what they have done in the past 64 years.
“It is also an opportunity to recognise the contribution of the party leaders and the loyalty of the party members over the past years,” he added.
Dr Sim thanked the people of Sarawak for their trust and support for the party, especially during the state and general elections.
He said SUPP is not just for the ethnic Chinese, but it is also for the Dayaks, Malays and Indians.
“Our present struggle and in 1959 when the party was formed may be different, but the objective is the same: Fighting for Sarawak, and you and I are here to stay for Sarawak that we love,” he said.
Among those present at the flag-raising ceremony were deputy president Datuk Seri Richard Riot Jaem, secretary-general Datuk Sebastian Ting and other party leaders.
