EC Currently Reviewing Proposal to Increase Sarawak State Seats to 99

KUALA LUMPUR – The Election Commission (EC) is currently reviewing a proposal to increase the number of seats in the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly (DUN), according to Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Sabah and Sarawak Affairs), Datuk Mustapha Sakmud.

The move follows the Sarawak State Assembly’s approval of the Constitution of the State of Sarawak (Amendment) Bill 2025 in July last year. The bill aims to add 17 new constituencies, which would bring the total number of state seats from 82 to 99.

Accelerating Rural Development

Speaking at a media event in Kuching, Mustapha expressed hope that the review process could be expedited before the matter is tabled in Parliament. He emphasized that the expansion is crucial for addressing the unique geographical challenges of the nation’s largest state.

“It is vital that we listen to the voices of Sarawak regarding this addition,” Mustapha told reporters. “By increasing the number of representatives, we can ensure a more comprehensive focus on the people’s needs, particularly in accelerating the provision of basic infrastructure like roads, water, and electricity in remote areas.”

The Minister noted that with smaller, more manageable constituencies, elected representatives can more effectively monitor and resolve localized development issues that have hindered the well-being of rural residents.

Strengthening the Borneo Voice

In addition to the state-level expansion, Mustapha touched upon the ongoing discussions regarding parliamentary representation. He reiterated that allocating one-third of the 222 seats in the Dewan Rakyat to Sabah and Sarawak remains a priority.

According to the Minister, such a move is not merely about numbers but about strengthening service delivery and ensuring that the development of the Borneo territories keeps pace with Peninsular Malaysia.

“The vastness of Sabah and Sarawak requires a larger number of representatives to effectively reach out to the grassroots and ensure no community is left behind in our national development agenda,” he added.

The proposal for additional state seats must undergo a rigorous redelineation exercise by the EC and a public display period for objections before it can be finalized and gazetted for future elections.