KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 11 – Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi has confirmed that he will not contest a state seat in the upcoming Sarawak election.
The Kapit Member of Parliament (MP) said he will continue serving the people at the parliamentary level.
Nanta, who is also Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) secretary-general, explained that speculation about his possible state election bid followed a proposal to create a new constituency called DUN Melekun.
The proposed seat would fall under the Kapit parliamentary constituency.
However, the new constituency will not be ready for the upcoming election. Nanta explained that the proposed boundary changes have not yet received the necessary approval.
DUN Melekun Not Ready for Election
The Sarawak State Legislative Assembly approved a bill to add 17 new seats on July 7, 2025.
The move would increase the number of state assembly seats from 82 to 99.
However, the proposal still requires approval from the Dewan Rakyat. Authorities must also complete the required gazettement process before the new boundaries can take effect.
As a result, DUN Melekun cannot be used in the coming state election.
Nanta said this leaves him without a new state seat to contest. Therefore, he will remain focused on his current parliamentary responsibilities.
Nanta Prioritises Service to Kapit Residents
Nanta has served six terms as the MP for Kapit.
He said the decision not to contest a state seat would not affect his commitment to the people.
His main priority remains serving residents through his existing parliamentary mandate.
Nanta had previously indicated that he did not plan to defend the Kapit parliamentary seat in the next general election. He wanted to make way for a leadership transition.
At the same time, he had left open the possibility of serving at state level if DUN Melekun became available.
GPS Candidate Line-Up Still Under Discussion
When asked about reports that GPS might introduce 10 per cent new faces in the election, Nanta declined to comment.
He said the decision rests with the party’s top leadership.
The Election Commission has set Dec 12 as polling day for the Sarawak state election. Nomination day will take place on Nov 28, while early voting is scheduled for Dec 8.
Source : BERNAMA | Rewritten By Minutesmy
