Kuching: The proposal to increase the number of Sarawak state seats, which has already been approved at the state level, is still under review by the Election Commission, said Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Sabah and Sarawak Affairs), Datuk Mustapha Sakmud. He expressed hope that the process could be expedited before the proposal is tabled in Parliament.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Mustapha emphasized the importance of hearing the voices from Sarawak, particularly regarding the proposal to increase the number of state seats. He mentioned that the increase in parliamentary seats in Sabah and Sarawak would allow for greater attention to be given to the needs of the people, particularly in providing basic facilities such as roads, water supply, and electricity in rural areas.

Mustapha highlighted that the move would enable infrastructure development issues in underdeveloped areas to be examined more closely and addressed more effectively, enhancing the well-being of people in the Borneo region, particularly in Sarawak. In July last year, the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly passed the State Legislative Assembly (Composition of Membership) Bill 2025, which increased the number of state seats by 17, bringing the total to 99.

Additionally, Mustapha pointed out that the proposal for Sabah and Sarawak to have one-third representation in Parliament should be given attention to strengthen service delivery and accelerate development in both states. He believes that the increase in elected representatives would help improve service delivery and the well-being of people in both regions. Mustapha stated that the increase in parliamentary seats would enable elected representatives to focus more on the needs of the people in Sabah and Sarawak, which cover a large geographical area.