KUCHING, Nov 6 – Sarawak will hold its 13th State Election on December 12, 2026. The Election Commission (EC) announced the election dates on Friday.
The EC has also set November 28 as nomination day. Meanwhile, early voting will take place on December 8.
EC chairman Datuk Seri Ramlan Harun announced the dates after chairing a special meeting on the state election.
14 Days of Campaigning Before Polling Day
Political parties and candidates will have 14 days to campaign before voters head to the polls.
During this period, candidates are expected to reach out to voters and explain their plans for Sarawak.
The election will involve all 82 seats in the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly.
Sarawak State Assembly Dissolved in October
The election follows the dissolution of the 19th Sarawak State Legislative Assembly on October 26.
Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg announced the dissolution on October 23. The decision received the consent of Sarawak Governor Tun Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar.
Under Article 21(4) of the Sarawak State Constitution, a state election must be held within 60 days after the assembly is dissolved.
GPS Aims to Maintain Its Strong Position
The previous Sarawak State Election took place on December 18, 2021.
During that election, Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) won 76 out of 82 seats. Meanwhile, Parti Sarawak Bersatu (PSB) secured four seats, while the Democratic Action Party (DAP) won two.
However, Sarawak’s political landscape has changed since the last election.
PSB was dissolved in 2024. Three of its former assemblymen later joined the Progressive Democratic Party (PDP), which is part of GPS.
Former Batu Lintang assemblyman See Chee How also became an independent representative.
All Eyes on Sarawak’s December Election
With the election dates now confirmed, political parties are expected to increase their preparations.
The December 12 election will give voters the opportunity to choose their representatives for the next state government.
The results will also determine the balance of political power in Sarawak and shape the state’s leadership for the coming years.
Source : Press KL | Rewritten By Minutesmy
