Abang Jo out to ensure Sarawak remains 'fix-deposit' state for BN

PETALING JAYA: Sarawak has long been regarded as the "fix-deposit" state for Barisan Nasional (BN).
Given Sarawak BN's strength in the state, as shown in its landslide victory in the state polls last year, there is little doubt that it will continue to deliver the parliamentary seats crucial for the federal BN to retain power in the 14th general election (GE14).
Chief Minister Datuk Abang Johari Abang Openg (pix), who took office early this year following the death of his predecessor Tan Sri Adenan Satem, will lead state BN's charge in GE14, which must be held latest by next August.
He has to ensure that Sarawak remains the fix-deposit state for BN, China Press reported today.
Based on the current scenario, BN's main opponent will be Pakatan Harapan and the main battles will be fought in Chinese-majority constituencies.
BN has the upper hand in rural and Malay and Melanau-majority constituencies whereas Pakatan will have the advantage in urban or Chinese majority areas.
Abang Johari's priority is to recapture seats lost to the Opposition in the last parliamentary election to show that he has the support of the Chinese.
To endear himself to the Chinese, he continued with the Chinese-friendly policies started by Adenan, including recognition for UEC (Unified Examination Certificate) and the granting of a piece of land to Sarawak Dong Lian Hui (association of Chinese school committees) to fund the 14 Chinese independent schools in the state.
Abang Johari also continued to negotiate with the federal government on the devolution of powers to the state, which was started by Adenan.
BN holds 25 of the 31 parliamentary seats in Sarawak. The rest are held by DAP, with five, and PKR, one.