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Sarawak Assembly Dissolution Expected in November, Minister Says

Sarawak's Deputy Chief Minister has indicated the state government will dissolve the assembly in November rather than allow its term to expire automatically in February 2027, signalling an earlier-than-expected election.

LSN Malaysia · 7 October 2026

Sarawak Assembly Dissolution Expected in November, Minister Says

The Sarawak state assembly is likely to be dissolved in November, according to Deputy Chief Minister Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, who stressed that the government will not permit the legislature's term to lapse naturally in February 2027.

Abdul Karim's statement suggests the state administration intends to call elections ahead of the constitutional deadline, a move that would give the ruling coalition greater control over the timing of the polls.

The remarks come as Sarawak's political landscape continues to evolve following recent electoral developments and shifting alliances within the state. The dissolution would trigger a campaign period and fresh elections to determine the composition of the state assembly.

Sarawak, Malaysia's largest state by area, has seen significant political developments in recent years, with various coalitions vying for control of the 82-seat assembly. The timing of elections can significantly impact campaign strategies and political momentum for competing parties.

An assembly dissolution in November would mark a substantial departure from allowing the current term to run its full constitutional course, indicating the government's confidence in its electoral prospects or desire to consolidate its position before potential shifts in voter sentiment.