Kuching, April 20, 2026 — A credible and constructive opposition is essential to ensure accountability and good governance in Sarawak, according to Kelvin Yii Lee Wuen.

The Bandar Kuching MP said it is in the interest of both state and federal governments to have a functioning opposition that can act as a check and balance, while applying constructive pressure to improve governance and policy delivery.

He said that the absence of opposition would be detrimental to Sarawak, citing past periods when the state assembly had little to no opposition presence.

During those times, he alleged, issues such as corruption, abuse of power, mismanagement of resources, and unfair practices were widespread.

Yii also claimed that in such an environment, laws detrimental to Sarawak’s interests were passed without sufficient scrutiny, either among the public or within the state legislative assembly.

“We cannot return to a situation where the government holds unfettered power without proper accountability,” he said, adding that even with improvements in government performance and policy initiatives, the need for checks and balances remains critical.

He stressed that stronger oversight is even more important now as Sarawak receives increased resources from the federal government, including revenues from oil and gas.

Proper scrutiny, he said, is necessary to ensure these funds benefit the wider population rather than a select few.

Yii added that opposition parties also play a key role in monitoring policy implementation to ensure initiatives are carried out effectively, on time, and reach intended beneficiaries.

Reaffirming his party’s stance, Yii said Democratic Action Party Sarawak has consistently upheld the principle of accountability.

He noted that the party has served as an opposition in Sarawak for 48 years, facing sustained political pressure while continuing to advocate for transparency and the interests of the people.