Media conference statement by Lim Kit Siang in Miri on Sunday, 10^th April 2011 at 12 noon: 

For first time in 48-year history, Miri leads in forefront for political change in Sarawak's 10^th general elections

In the past 48 years, it was either Kuching or Sibu which led the state in political change.

This is now different. For the first time in Sarawak’s 48-year history, Miri is leading in the forefront for political change in Sarawak’s 10th general elections as evident in the DAP ceramahs in the past four nights – with unprecedented increasing crowds, public support as well as public donations every night.

Miri is now the cynosure of Sarawak and Malaysia - in the very frontline for political change in Sarawak and Malaysia and all eyes are on Miri on polling day on April 16.

Together with DAP Piasau candidate Ling Sie Kiong and Pujut candidate Fong Pau Teck and Miri DAP leaders, I had a walkabout in Miri and it is clear that there is something special in the air in Miri - in fact, even for Sarawak -next Saturday.

If I am asked now, I will not say that we have crossed the line towards victory for the 15 state assembly constituencies DAP is contesting, but there have been daily increases in support increasing the chances of success of winning in these constituencies come polling day.

DAP members and supporters must however not take things for granted for we must wrest every single available vote on polling day, or we may still miss the boat.

The daily improvement in the electoral stakes apply not only to DAP but also for all other Pakatan Rakyat candidates.

Clearly Barisan Nasional leaders are aware that something is stirring among the Sarawakian voters and there can be great surprises on polling day.

This is why Barisan Nasional leaders are exuding the scent that they can suffer electoral losses and they are beginning to panic.

This is also why Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak has done something no other Prime Minister had ever done in the past 48 years – cancelling the Cabinet meeting next week and dragooning all Ministers to campaign in Sarawak as if he is fighting for his own political life.

Najib must have been greatly worried by the awakening of Sarawakians to their rights and power, best illustrated by the awakening of the people of Miri in the past four nights.

*Lim Kit Siang, DAP Parliamentary Leader & MP for Ipoh Timor