Sarawak BN has been dissolved after all four component parties announced their exit from the coalition.

The four – PBB, SUPP, PRS and PDP – have formed a new state-based alliance called "Gabungan Parti Sarawak" (GPS).

The announcement was made by Sarawak Chief Minister Abang Johari Openg, who was also the Sarawak BN chief, in a press conference at the PBB headquarters in Kuching this afternoon.

He was flanked by the top leadership of all the former BN component parties in Sarawak.

"The component parties of the Sarawak BN have met and (made) a unanimous decision to leave BN and to form a new coalition of Sarawak-based parties known as Gabungan Parti Sarawak.

"The decision was made after much deliberation with reflection and due consideration, taking into account the country's current political development post-14th general election," Johari said.

He said the state ruling coalition must consider its aspirations as Sarawak is a diverse state.

"We believe that it is timely and appropriate for Sarawak to embark on a new political platform going forward, in order to face the challenges in line with the changing aspirations, needs and demands of a very wide range of cross-section of the Sarawak populace.

Johari added that the multi-racial, multi-cultural and multi-religious nature of Sarawak had to be preserved.

"We have long considered our diversities as our greatest strength in progressing and developing as a successful and peaceful state.

"Therefore, it is incumbent upon us Sarawakians to continue to nurture and protect our values, living in peace, harmony and comfort among one another.

"This aspect is indeed not only our pride but also our joy in our lives as Sarawakians, hence the decision (to leave BN) was made in the interest of the people and the state above all else," he said.