Political pundits from Sarawak today hit out at the state government for barring opposition leaders from the state.

Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (Unimas) analyst Jeniri Amir said it was an abuse of the state's immigration powers and this should stop.

"Are DAP and PKR leaders blocked because of extremism or because of political fears?

"Are Teresa Kok, Tony Pua, Zuraida Kamaruddin fanatical extremists?" Jeniri asked at a forum in Kuala Lumpur today.

Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia professor Faisal Syam Hazis said opposition leaders and activists were barred simply because they had dissenting political views and were critical of the government.

Jeniri said it would actually work in Sarawak Chief Minister Adenan Satem's favour to let them in, and to give a level playing field in the coming state election.

"What's there to be afraid of? This will boost Adenan's image."

Faisal ( pix ) said the barring of political opponents is an example of how autonomy without accountability will not benefit the state.

"Instead, this will only benefit the elites and lead to abuses of power," he added.

Under the Malaysia Agreement, Sarawak has the right to determine who can enter the state.

Several key opposition leaders and activists are among those not allowed entry.