Activist: Sarawak holds ‘unquestionable sovereignty’ over own natural resources

KUCHING (Sept 20): Social activist James Wong Hua Kiong has expressed his unwavering support for Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg’s statement regarding Sarawak’s ownership of natural gas.

The president of the Malaysia Hu Kiu Leuk Iek Wong Clan Association emphasises that Sarawak has unquestionable sovereignty over the management and development of its natural resources.

Wong points out that since the signing of the Malaysia Agreement in 1963, Sarawak has been an integral part of the federation, with its own legal system and sovereign rights, particularly concerning natural resources.

He also says Sarawak’s government has an inherent right to manage its resources, and any challenge to this right is a misunderstanding of historical and legal facts.

“Natural gas is one of Sarawak’s most valuable natural resources, and it is entirely reasonable for the Sarawak government to exercise full control over it.

“The negotiations between Premier Abang Johari and Petronas aim to ensure that Sarawak can fully exercise its rights and restore what rightfully belongs to the people of Sarawak,” he said in a statement.

Responding to claims by certain scholars from Peninsular Malaysia that Sarawak’s pursuit of sovereignty over natural gas might destabilise the nation, Wong dismissed such remarks as ‘baseless fear-mongering’.

He stressed that Sarawak’s efforts to reclaim its rightful ownership had been carried out within the legal framework and would not lead to political instability, or the disintegration of the Federation of Malaysia.

“Protecting Sarawak’s legitimate rights will not cause political unrest; instead, it will strengthen cooperation among the states in the Federation, fostering long-term national stability and prosperity.

“By safeguarding these rights, Sarawak can cement its position within the federation and drive forward its development for the benefit of all Sarawakians.”

Looking ahead, Wong expressed his admiration for Abang Johari’s efforts in promoting economic diversification, especially within the natural gas industry.

The social activist believed that Sarawak’s plans to develop new natural gas power plants and other projects in the coming years would inject new economic vitality, create jobs and improve the living standards of the people.

“Natural gas not only drives local economic growth but also holds enormous potential for Sarawak in the petrochemical and power generation sectors.

“These initiatives will provide fresh impetus for Sarawak’s economy, helping us achieve our goal of economic diversification and reducing our reliance on traditional industries, paving the way for a brighter future,” he said.

Wong also expressed his support for Abang Johari’s recent remarks in an interview with Channel News Asia (CNA), where the Premier likened Sarawak to Bavaria in Germany.

Wong regarded such comparison as ‘highly inspiring’, acknowledging Sarawak’s critical role in the national economy and at the same time, motivating the people of Sarawak to unite in pursuit of regional prosperity.

He also called upon the Sarawak government to accelerate the implementation of free higher education, hoping that this ambitious goal could be achieved by 2026.

“Quality education is essential for breaking the cycle of poverty and unlocking economic potential.

“To ensure that every Sarawakian benefits from economic and educational progress, the Sarawak government must continue the late (former chief minister) Pehin Sri Adenan Satem’s inclusive policy of serving all people regardless of race or religion.

“This unity will help Sarawak move forward together towards prosperity,” he said.

Wong also believed that under the Premier’s guidance, Sarawak would continue to make significant strides in both economic and educational fields, further solidifying its important role within Malaysia and on the global stage.

“Sarawakians must bravely pursue the rights that belong to us and become the strongest support for the government, working together to build a better Sarawak,” he added.