"How can anyone claim that the Dayak community has been sidelined when so many Dayaks hold important positions in the state and national administration?

"The reality is that PBB and GPS have always upheld the principle that every qualified Sarawakian should be given the opportunity to serve, regardless of race," he said when speaking at the PBB Central Zone Special Convention here today.

Nanta, however, acknowledged that there is still room to improve inclusiveness in the administration so that the issue can no longer be manipulated by certain parties.

He said championing the interests of one's own community is not wrong, but it should not be done by inciting racial sentiment or hatred towards other communities.

"We can defend the interests of our respective communities, but we must not resort to racial approaches that create hatred. That is something we cannot accept," he said.

On preparations for the Sarawak state election, Nanta reminded the party machinery to prioritise discipline, loyalty and unity, saying victory cannot be achieved through slogans alone.

He also urged GPS leaders and members to remain committed to the coalition's neutral stance on political developments in Peninsular Malaysia and instead focus on Sarawak's development agenda.

"We have a development agenda for Sarawak that must be carried forward. What is important is ensuring that the Federal Government remains stable so that Sarawak's development agenda can be implemented smoothly," he said.

He also called on all PBB members to return to their respective areas with renewed spirit to strengthen the party, ensure PBB remains the backbone of GPS and secure a bigger mandate in the next state election.

-- BERNAMA