ACCCIS hails commitment of Madani Govt in fulfilling MA63 promises

BINTULU (Oct 21): The Associated Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Sarawak (ACCCIS) president Kong Chiong Ung lauds the commitment of the Madani Government in fulfilling the promises of the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), paving the way for the development of Sarawak and Sabah.

According to him, the commitment is not only a fulfilment of a historical contract, but also a balance of regional development pertaining to Sarawak and Sabah.

In a statement issued yesterday in response to being asked for comments on the just-tabled Budget 2025, Kong highlighted the importance of narrowing the development gap between the states, particularly in the aspect of infrastructure covering, among many things, roads and other accessibilities, as well as electricity and treated water supply.

“Improving infrastructure is fundamental to ensure the prosperity of Sarawak and Sabah. Only by bridging the gap in basic public services can these two states truly integrate into the national modernisation agenda,” he said.

Kong also noted that under Budget 2025, the federal government allocated RM6.7 billion and RM5.9 billion for Sabah and Sarawak, respectively – the highest among all states.

He hailed this as demonstrating ‘the federal government’s commitment to the principle of equitable development’, and also ‘underscoring the importance of Sabah and Sarawak in national development’.

Kong also pointed out that Sarawak’s special allocation had not been adjusted since 1969, but under the current federal government, it had been increased from RM16 million to RM300 million, while Sabah’s allocation had been raised to RM125.6 million.

“More importantly, this special grant will double up to RM600 million – this is a historic breakthrough.”

Kong was also encouraged by the progress of the Pan Borneo Highway development, with the Sarawak section expected to reach completion by next month.

“The federal government is accelerating the implementation of the second phase of the Sabah-Sarawak Link Road (SSLR).

“Four work packages, totalling RM7.4 billion, have been finalised, with two packages already awarded and the remaining contracts to be finalised by the end of the year.

“These projects set out to strengthen the regional connectivity, injecting new momentum into the economic development of both states.”

On enhancements to air transport capacity, Kong said the federal government had announced an allocation of RM253 million slated for the expansion of Tawau Airport in Sabah, and Miri Airport in Sarawak.

“This development will not only enhance the economic potential of both regions, but also broaden the business opportunities for those in Tawau and Miri.”

Kong also talked about the federal government, in collaboration with the Sarawak government, constructing the Sarawak Cancer Centre, with estimated total investment of RM1 billion.

“This cancer centre project represents a significant leap in Sarawak’s healthcare services, and also the government’s deep commitment to public healthcare.”

In view of all these aspects, Kong believed that the development of Sabah and Sarawak should not be limited to budget allocations and the funding of projects, as it should also reflect the federal government’s ‘solemn’ commitment to MA63 and national unity.

“True progress lies not only in economic prosperity, but also in social, racial and religious harmony. Only with the simultaneous progress of all states can the nation achieve long-term prosperity,” he added.