With regard to the decision by the Sarawak DAP to pull out from Barisan Alternatif at the Sarawak level, I agree with chairman Wong Ho Leng's remark that DAP lost in the last parliamentary election partly because of the Islamic state issue. The issue was played up by the ruling Sarawak United People's Party, which alleged that DAP supported the creation of an Islamic state.

The alliance with BA was the reason why another Sarawak DAP stalwart, Wong Sing Nang, recently resigned from the party.

Being a Sarawakian, I understand how insular most Sarawakians are. They are not so concerned with national politics especially in a state election. Sarawakians are mostly fed-up with the present chief minister, allegedly for plundering the state coffers through nepotism and cronyism. The [#1]website[/#] has helped to fan this sentiment. I believe what the Sarawakian electorate want is to deny Barisan Nasional a two-thirds majority.

I appeal to the opposition parties intending to contest in the coming state election, i.e., DAP, Keadilan, State Reform Party Sarawak (STAR), PAS, Abang Abu Bakar and other prospective independent candidates, to please respect the aspirations of the Sarawak electorate. Do not create a three-cornered contest, which would automatically give BN the seat. Please put our interests first before yours and your party's.

I appeal to all national leaders of all these opposition parties to work together, compromise and not make irresponsible and sensitive statements regarding the allocation of seats. This coming election is a good opportunity for the people to vote in a 'shadow' cabinet, so please listen to our pleas.