Malaysia: PKR opts for lesser seats in Sarawak to consolidate party machinery

• While earlier appearing to be pushing for the coalition to let them contest more seats, PKR is now choosing to field just 28 candidates – almost half the original 47 candidate cap agreed in Jan 21.
• According to Anwar himself when speaking with reporters, PKR is being handed the leftover seats the other parties in the coalition do not wish to contest. However, they are uncompetitive seats where the party does not have a strong base, necessitating a consolidation of the party machinery to stand a fighting chance.
• Seeming to come to an agreement however, there is confirmation that there will be no PKR-DAP clash during the Sarawak polls. In terms of strategy, the DAP has also confirmed they will not work with the PSB for the polls, citing fears of defections. The DAP will field 26 candidates, and it is expected that Amanah will field less than 10.
• This has resulted in Parti Sarawak Bersatu emerging as the main opposition force in the Sarawak state elections, promising at least 70 candidates in the upcoming elections.
• Other than 5 of the 6 incumbents, the PSB is also fielding a slew of current and ex-lawmakers and politicians. The PSB is choosing to focus on welfare, announcing handouts of MYR300 a month for children to between 1 and 3 years old, and MYR500 for every child from 5 to 13 years old.
• They claim this is more prudent than the megaprojects promised by GPS. GPS is still the overwhelming favourite however, especially since the opposition vote will be likely split between PH and PSB.

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