Politics of development in urban areas of Sarawak

Abstract

The meaning of politics of development can be described by relating this concept with developmentalism. According to Francis Loh, "Developmentalism is the cultural consequence of the dirigiste developmentalist state, when citizens begin to enjoy improved living conditions as a result of the economic growth the state has brought about". (Loh, 2002: 21 ). In the connection with politics, "Developmentalism is generally a new political culture, a result of sudden economic development, and specifically refers to improvement in terms of possession and increased standard of living among the people. As the people wish these situations to continue, therefore development and improvement in terms of possession became a principle (element) valued by the society, especially among the new middle class. Furthermore, 'developmentalism' refers to a new orientation where political stability is emphasized and deemed necessary if we were to achieve development and the continuance of increased standard of living. Hence this paper is aimed to address the trends of the politics of development with special reference to the urban areas in Sarawak namely, P. 194 Petra Jaya, P 195 Bandar Kuching, and P. 196 Stampin. The concept itself will be incorporated from the results of the previous 12th General Election in Malaysia held on March 8, 2008.