Keadilan wants to contest in Samariang, Sarawak although its opposition ally PAS is also vying for the seat.

The party's information chief Hafsah Harun said today that Keadilan is better suited for the constituency compared with PAS as it has made inroads into the area even before the last general elections.

Habsah, who is a former Pesaka Bansa Bumiputra member and state minister, denied that PAS had more potential to win the seat in the constituency.

"Who says PAS has made inroads there? We are better known in that area," Hafsah told malaysiakini .

"However, we would leave all decisions to Barisan Alternatif leaders," she added, saying that the list of candidates will only be released on nomination day, Sept 18.

The Sarawak state election scheduled for Sept 27 is said to be one of the most exciting elections pitting Barisan Nasional - led by chief minister Abdul Taib Mahmud of coalition party PBB - against opposition party Keadilan.

Keadilan is planning to contest in at least 30 seats. The other opposition parties are DAP, PAS and Parti Reformasi Negeri (Star).

The opposition said it is planning an 'understanding' or a 'pact' to ensure that the parties do not overlap especially in four popular constituencies, Jepak, Repuk, Tanjung Datu and Padungan.

No compromise

Samariang, a Malay majority area, is considered a 'hot seat'. PAS supporters claim the party has established its presence in the area since the last general elections.

They claim that Keadilan supporters were then still members of Muslim Youth organisation Abim (Angkatan Belia Islam) which meant most were linked to Umno or Barisan Nasional.

They are asking Keadilan to compromise and give PAS a chance to contest in several seats as they have done for Keadilan elsewhere.

"Looks like Keadilan cannot compromise on these matters," said the source.

"We are willing to give up Tupong, Pantai Dalam, Demak Laut and Satok without any fuss," the source added.

Meanwhile, Hafsah considers this election a very important one as it is a good opportunity for the people to reform and work toward an accountable government.

Sarawak PAS official Wan Rahim Wan Abdullah could not be reached for comment.