The recent move by the Sarawak State and the call by Speaker of Dewan Undangan Negri (DUN) and by some Cabinet Ministers during Hari Raya to get the federal Government to increase the number of state assembly seats from 82 to 99 is not reform—it is excess dressed up as necessity.

The justification of Sarawak’s vast geographical size is weak and unconvincing. To date, no transparent study, independent report, or empirical data has been presented to prove that enlarging the legislature will improve governance, representation, or service delivery. Parti Bumi Kenyalang is right to question this. Without evidence, this expansion looks less like a solution and more like a political exercise in patronage.

Let’s call this what it is: an increase in political positions means an increase in public spending—more salaries, more allowances, more pensions, and more lifelong benefits borne by taxpayers. It raises a serious moral question: why should elected representatives qualify for pensions after a short stint in office—reportedly as little as around three years—while ordinary civil servants must dedicate decades of service to earn the same security?

This is not about strengthening democracy. It is about expanding the political class at public expense.

More lawmakers do not automatically mean better governance. In reality, under Malaysia’s parliamentary system, major decisions are shaped and finalized by the executive—by cabinet—not by the legislature. The assembly too often functions as a rubber stamp, endorsing decisions already made behind closed doors.

So what exactly are Sarawakians paying for? More voices—or more echo chambers? Many elected representatives were found snoring during debates in the Legislature.

At a time when people are facing rising costs of living, economic uncertainty, and pressing development needs, this move sends the wrong message. It signals that political expansion takes priority over fiscal discipline, transparency, and genuine reform.

Sarawak does not need more seats. It needs better governance, accountability, and respect for taxpayers’ money.

Anything less is a disservice to the people.