Tak mungkin GPS, GRS tarik sokongan kerajaan Madani, kata penganalisis

Analysts suggest that the Sarawak Party Alliance (GPS) and Sabah People's Alliance (GRS) might not withdraw their support for the federal government led by Anwar Ibrahim, as both states continue to benefit from Prime Minister Anwar's administration. Former political figure and analyst Ong Kian Ming proposed that GPS leader Abang Johari Openg and GRS head Hajiji Nor may be more open to backing the Barisan Nasional (BN) and withdrawing their support for the government after the 2027 Budget is presented on October 9.

James Chin from the University of Tasmania informed FMT that both blocs are unlikely to agree to topple the government with a parliamentary session nearing its end. He believes Anwar has provided a substantial federal budget for both states and is committed to resolving major issues under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).

Chin states that they would not topple Anwar as long as he cooperates with them. The only thing they desire is 35% of the parliamentary seats, but they know they cannot achieve it due to the limited time left in the current parliamentary session. Ong Kian Ming, however, believes that both blocs, especially GPS, often change political allies when circumstances favor them.

He cites the cooperation between Sarawak's GPS administration and the Pakatan Harapan (PH) government in 2018, followed by support for the subsequent Perikatan Nasional (PN) and BN-led governments.

Oh Ei Sun from the International Institute for Asian Studies in Singapore said GPS can work well with BN, as it is a branch of the Umno-led alliance. He added that this became evident after the 2022 general election, when GPS initially supported PN to form the government but later joined BN to form a coalition government with PH.

GRS is more likely to be on the fence, as they would evaluate which side offers better opportunities for their projects in Sabah. Oh Ei Sun also believes Anwar's administration is trying to fulfill the demands of Borneo states, explaining his frequent visits to Sabah and Sarawak. Meanwhile, James Chin acknowledges the frustration in Sabah regarding what he calls the government's delay in fulfilling the state's right to 40% of federal funds.

However, he believes this issue can be used by GRS and GPS to gain public sympathy and support while pressuring the federal government to meet their MA63 demands.