SIBU, Oct 10 — Bawang Assan assemblyman Datuk Seri Wong Soon Koh expressed full support for Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing, describing him as a leader of integrity, courage and results-oriented leadership who has constantly placed Malaysia’s and Sarawak’s interests first.
Speaking at a press conference here yesterday, the Senior Vice President of the Progressive Democratic Party (PDP) said the party stood united behind Tiong amid recent criticisms related to the Global Travel Meet (GTM) event.
“PDP has full confidence in Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing’s integrity and sincerity. His leadership has brought tangible results — revitalising Malaysia’s tourism industry, strengthening global partnerships, and enhancing our nation’s image abroad,” he said.
Soon Koh added that Tiong’s immediate acceptance of the Prime Minister’s advice and his assurance of compliance with all standard operating procedures (SOPs) reflected humility and loyalty to the spirit of Cabinet unity.
“Constructive criticism is welcome, but it must be grounded in fairness and respect for facts. Datuk Seri Tiong has always been accountable and transparent in his actions,” he stressed.
He urged the public not to politicise the GTM issue, noting that the event was organised by private industry stakeholders to celebrate Malaysia’s tourism achievements, not as a government entertainment function.
“The so-called free-flow alcohol issue should be placed in its proper context. The event marked an important milestone, generating over RM420 million in business impact for the country. We must not allow misinterpretation to tarnish the ministry’s reputation,” he said.
Soon Koh said PDP’s Bawang Assan Division respected MPs’ right to raise questions in the spirit of accountability, but called for fairness, objectivity, and understanding of the broader context in which the Tourism Ministry operates.
He also pointed out that industry players had publicly voiced their confidence in Tiong’s leadership, recognising his tireless efforts to revive Malaysia’s tourism sector after the pandemic, attract foreign investments, and promote local employment.
“These accomplishments are clear evidence of effective, hands-on leadership. Under his watch, Malaysia’s tourism industry has shown strong recovery and renewed investor confidence,” he added.
Meanwhile, PDP Bawang Assan Division chairman Councillor Wong Hua echoed Soon Koh’s remarks, saying Sarawakians must remain united in the face of political noise and narrow-minded agendas.
“At this critical moment, when truth is often clouded, we must stand together and speak with one clear Sarawakian voice.
“Datuk Seri Tiong is being unfairly targeted simply because he dares to act boldly and put the people first,” said Wong Hua.
He described Tiong as a “leader of action and courage” who has consistently defended Sarawak’s rights and values while promoting unity and progress.
“Supporting Datuk Seri Tiong is not just about defending one man. It’s about defending Sarawak’s dignity, our independence of spirit, and our right to stand tall within Malaysia,” he said.
Wong Hua urged all Sarawakians, regardless of race or political belief, to rally behind Datuk Seri Tiong and reject divisive politics.
“Let our voices be heard across Malaysia ― Sarawak stands with Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing,” he declared.
Also present were Political Secretary to the Sarawak Premier Joshua Ting and PDP members. — The Borneo Post
Malay Mail – Malaysia
