Bersatu Sarawak: State govt’s petition in Federal Court principled effort to defend enshrined rights

KUCHING (Feb 25): Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (Bersatu) Sarawak has voiced support for the Sarawak government’s move to file a petition in the Federal Court to seek a determination on the validity and application of federal laws related to the petroleum industry in the state.

Bersatu Sarawak information chief Alexander Frusis said the action was not confrontational but a principled effort to defend rights enshrined under the Federal Constitution and the spirit of the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).

He stressed that the state’s rights over its natural resources, including oil and gas within boundaries established prior to the formation of Malaysia, were fundamental matters that should not be taken lightly.

“Any issue touching on the sovereignty of the state’s constitutional rights must be addressed clearly and conclusively. Prolonged uncertainty will only create legal, administrative, and investment ambiguities, which in turn could affect both the state and national economy,” he said in a press statement.

Alexander said the effort to clarify the legal position does not intend to weaken the Federal government or any national institution.

Instead, he described it as part of a process to strengthen Malaysia’s federal structure so that it is more balanced, fair, and aligned with constitutional provisions.

He noted that the Federal Court’s decision would carry significant implications not only for Sarawak but also for the overall landscape of national energy resource management.

“As such, it is important that this process be fully respected and not narrowly politicised,” he said.

He opined that greater legal clarity would help strengthen investor confidence in the oil and gas sector, ensure that natural resource revenues are managed in a more transparent and competitive manner, enhance Sarawak’s position within the Federation of Malaysia, and guarantee more equitable and inclusive development for future generations.

Bersatu Sarawak also called on all parties to view the matter within the broader framework of national interest rather than short-term political considerations.

“Sarawak is a founding partner of Malaysia, and its rights must be respected in line with the spirit of the Federation’s formation.

“The people of Sarawak will continue to stand firm in defending the state’s constitutional rights, while ensuring national stability and shared prosperity for Malaysians remains a priority,” he said.

On Monday, the Sarawak government filed a petition in the Federal Court seeking a determination on the constitutional validity and continued applicability of several federal petroleum laws to the state.

Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Law, MA63 and State-Federal Relations) Datuk Sharifah Hasidah Sayeed Aman Ghazali said the petition sought to determine the constitutional validity and continued applicability of the Petroleum Development Act 1974, Continental Shelf Act 1966, and Petroleum Mining Act 1966 to Sarawak.