Sarawak State Assembly Dissolved, Triggering Schedule for 13th State Election
The Sarawak state assembly was dissolved, initiating the constitutional timeline for the 13th state election within 60 days.
On Friday, Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg confirmed the official dissolution of the state assembly, following approval from Governor Tun Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar. Article 21(4) of the state constitution mandates an election within 60 days, prompting the Election Commission to schedule a special meeting to determine key dates. Datuk Khairul Shahril Idrus said the commission will act after receiving formal notification from the Speaker.
Abang Johari, also chair of Gabungan Parti Sarawak, stated the administration will continue as a caretaker to maintain essential services. The 82-seat assembly’s term was due to expire in February 2027; GPS previously won 76 seats in the 2021 election, while PSB’s dissolution in 2024 led three former legislators to join the Progressive Democratic Party, a GPS component, and another to sit as an independent.
Why it matters
The dissolution sets the timetable for Sarawak's next state election, affecting governance and political balance in the region.
How the sides frame it
HIGH AGREEMENTBoth camps report the assembly's dissolution and the constitutional 60-day election timeline, though the right-leaning coverage adds details about the caretaker role and past election results.
CENTER
Centrist coverage presents a straightforward factual account of the dissolution, constitutional deadline, and the Election Commission’s next steps.
RIGHT
Right-leaning coverage presents the same facts while highlighting the caretaker administration’s role and contextualising the ruling party’s previous electoral strength.
The right emphasises
- the administration will continue as a caretaker to maintain essential services
- the 82-seat assembly’s term expires in February 2027
- GPS previously won 76 seats in the 2021 election
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