KUCHING, June 21 — Sarawak politicians across the divide today appealed for a comprehensive investigation into this morning’s drive-by shooting of PKR’s Bill Kayong in Miri.

Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS) president Tan Sri Dr James Masing called the murder senseless and urged the authorities to pursue all angles in their probe to ensure the killer is brought to book.

“Whatever is the motive of the killing, it is never justifiable and tolerated,” the deputy chief minister said.

He added that he did not know the Miri PKR secretary personally but knew of his work as an activist who fought for customary land rights and other issues related to the Dayak community.

Masing also extended his condolences and sympathies to Kayong’s family.

Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) secretary-general Datuk Sebastian Ting expressed concern over the killing, and urged the authorities to hasten their probe.

“I have heard that the ordinary people in Miri are worried now,” he said.

“If there is any misunderstanding with anyone, then there are ways to solve it in a peaceful manner,” Ting, who is also Piasau state lawmaker, said.

He also extended SUPP’s condolences and sympathies to Kayong’s family.

Sarawak DAP secretary Alan Ling said called Kayong’s murder shocking, claiming it was the first time a politician from the state has been assassinated.

“We have heard of people from other professions being killed before, but not a politician. That is why I said his death is a shock to me,” the former Piasau assemblyman said.

He said the police must make sure to find the killer or killers and their motive.

“The police must also find out the people behind the killers,” he said.