With just three days before the Sarawak state elections, a group of Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) Youth members have joined Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR).

The 150 youths submitted their application forms to PKR adviser Anwar Ibrahim during a brief ceremony at Kampung Surabaya Ulu in Pantai Damai last night.

Led by Zainal Abidin Yep, the youths said they were attracted by PKR's commitment to help the Malays in the Pantai Damai constituency.

They claimed that incumbent Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi had failed to help the Malays in that area.

"We believe PKR will be able bring about positive changes if it wins the seat," said Zainal when met later.

Abdul Rahman will be challenged by PKR's Idris Bohari, a former assistant district officer.

Meanwhile, Zainal said the group's move to PKR would definitely deal a blow to PBB, which is led by Chief Minister and state Barisan Nasional (BN) chairperson Abdul Taib Mahmud.

"I anticipate accusations to be thrown against us. Some will even call this whole thing a farce. But we are not liars, PBB is the expert in lies," he added.

Overwhelming support

Speaking at a ceramah (talk) attended by some 1,500 people in the area, Anwar said he was overwhelmed by the support from the Malays in Sarawak.

"I can sense a wave of change here. Everywhere, I am approached by people who say they are tired of the current corrupt government. So the people must take the opportunity to replace these corrupt leaders," he said.

"How has PBB helped the Malays? Yes, they help a selective few to riches but the rest are left to fend for themselves.

"This is the only state I know where heaps of Rolls Royces, the most expensive car in the world, lie around, owned by these so-called leaders who take our land, money and wealth," he added.

He said the Malays in the state will only have themselves to blame if these 'corrupt leaders' are re-elected to power.

"So don't repeat the mistake because it will cost you another five years of victimization," he told his audience. Anwar also advised voters not to fall prey to vote buying. He said they should never sell their principles.

He said PKR supporters must also be wary of BN's alleged 'dirty tricks' on polling day.

"We must take extra caution. Guard the ballot boxes with your life. Don't allow them (BN) any opportunity to cheat. If there is a blackout, stay until there is light because they will stoop very low to win.

"Don't place too much hope on the Election Commission, I have little faith in them," he added.