MA63 must be fully implemented before GE to safeguard Sabah, Sarawak sights, says senator

KOTA KINABALU (Feb 28): The implementation of the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) must be resolved comprehensively and courageously before the next general election (GE) to ensure that the rights of Sabah and Sarawak would continue to be safeguarded within the federal framework.

In stressing this, Senator Datuk Bobbey Suan said after five years of the matter being repeatedly raised in Parliament and Dewan Negara, it was time for a conclusive decision in line with the spirit of the Federal Constitution and the call by the Yang Di-Pertuan Agong for issues relating to territorial rights to be resolved holistically and harmoniously.

“MA63 forms the foundation of Malaysia’s formation, uniting Malaya, Sabah and Sarawak into a sovereign federation.

“As such, territorial rights as enshrined in the Federal Constitution must be respected and implemented responsibly.

“Any differences of opinion regarding MA63 should be resolved maturely through institutional negotiations and legal channels, with the federal government adopting an open, professional and constructive approach in the interest of national unity,” he said in debating the Royal Address in Dewan Negara on Thursday.

On the petroleum issue, Bobbey said although it was not specifically stated in the text of MA63, it remained closely linked to the framework of power and revenue distribution between the Federation and the territories.

“Sabah and Sarawak are major contributors to the nation’s oil and gas industry.

“When this issue is raised, it is not a threat to the Federation, but a rights-based claim that deserves mature and structured negotiations,” he said.

He also referred to the stance of Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor, who stressed that the implementation of the 40 per cent net federal revenue entitlement to Sabah must be carried out in accordance with Articles 112C and 112D and the Tenth Schedule of the Federal Constitution.

According to Bobbey, the claim is grounded in the principle of fiscal justice and equitable development, especially as Sabah continues to face basic challenges such as water supply, electricity and road infrastructure.

Beyond MA63, he also emphasised the importance of strengthening integrity while addressing digital security threats, including the growing concern over online fraud, which had directly affected the wellbeing of the people.

In another development, Bobbey spoke about the controversy surrounding the proposed opening of an Indian consulate in Sabah, saying that the matter should be viewed rationally and based on facts.

“In international diplomatic practice, the opening of consulates is common towards facilitating trade, investment, education, tourism and the welfare of citizens.

“That said, there is a strategic need to consider the opening of a Philippines consulate (in Sabah), given the large number of its citizens in Sabah and the various documentation and social issues that require formal resolution through government-to-government channels.”

In this regard, Bobbey called upon the Foreign Minister to openly clarify the rationale, scope of functions and implications of the proposed consulates to avoid misunderstandings and unfounded negative perceptions.