MA63 no longer a political issue, but people’s issue – SAPP

KOTA KINABALU (Aug 11): As Sabah prepares to officially celebrate Sabah Day on August 31, the Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP) reflects on the long and challenging journey that led to this significant milestone.

The party, which first initiated the recognition of Sabah Day back in 2012 with an unofficial celebration at Chong Thien Vun Park in Kota Kinabalu, expresses deep satisfaction in seeing this important day finally gazetted.

Speaking at SAPP Luyang and Api-Api CLCs annual general meeting, party president Datuk Yong Teck Lee acknowledged the pivotal role played by Datuk Dr Jeffrey Kitingan in bringing the proposal to gazette Sabah Day to the State Cabinet. He also thanked Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor for ensuring its official recognition.

“This achievement is a testament to the enduring commitment of Sabah’s leaders to safeguard and promote the identity of our state,” Yong said.

He said SAPP had also been at the forefront of advocating for the rights of Sabahans through its persistent efforts on the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63). The issue, first raised by SAPP during the Batu Sapi parliamentary by-election in 2010, has grown from a political concern into a widespread public demand for justice and autonomy.

“The MA63 issue is no longer just a political matter; it has become a people’s issue. The aspirations of Sabahans for their rightful share in the nation’s resources and governance are clear and undeniable.”

In addition to these key achievements, Yong expressed that SAPP remains focused on its long-term struggles, which include the introduction of the Sabah IC and the return of Labuan to Sabah. These initiatives are central to the party’s agenda of reclaiming Sabah’s rights and ensuring that its people fully benefit from the state’s resources.

“The return of Labuan and the implementation of the Sabah IC are critical components of our perjuangan (fight) for Sabah,” he stated.

Despite the successes, Yong also acknowledged the challenges ahead, particularly in strengthening the party’s organisational structure.

“While we have a large number of members and leaders supporting our causes, we recognise that our team is not as strong as it could be. Team building is now more crucial than ever,” he emphasised.

He also highlighted the importance of engaging with the younger generation, noting that 65% of voters are between the ages of 18 and 40, a demographic that remains largely unfamiliar with SAPP.

He pointed out that social media presents an unbiased and powerful platform to connect with this audience.

“We must effectively leverage social media to introduce SAPP’s vision to the younger generation and ensure that they are well-informed about the issues affecting Sabah,” he added.

In his speech, SAPP Api-Api CLC chairman Wong Vui Khim stressed the need to focus on critical issues affecting Sabah and outlining the party’s future direction.

He said there should be more proactive advocacies regarding the issue of MA63.

Wong highlighted that many members of the public remain unclear about their entitlements, particularly the 40% revenue derived from Sabah, which should not be compromised by other allocations or gifts.

“Enhancing public understanding of these matters is crucial for informed discussion and effective advocacy,” he said.

Wong also emphasised the importance of strong support for the GRS in the upcoming State election, noting that such backing will send a clear message to the Federal Government about Sabah’s needs and aspirations.

Reflecting on the political landscape since 2018, Wong noted that the inability of any single coalition to govern the federation independently has created opportunities for Sabah and Sarawak parties to play a decisive role.

He emphasised the importance of strong local party governance to effectively address Sabah’s issues and leverage this political positioning.

In his report, Wong detailed the SAPP Api-Api CLC’s charitable and community service initiatives over the past year. These include a successful blood donation drive and ongoing support for local communities, as well as underprivileged old folks’ homes and orphanages, highlighting the CLC’s efforts to improve the well-being of residents within the constituency.