Mustapha: Federal govt open to discussions on state relations amid Petronas–Petros dispute

KUCHING (March 9): The Madani government remains open to discussions on various issues involving relations between the federal government and state governments, said Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Sabah and Sarawak Affairs) Datuk Mustapha Sakmud.

Mustapha made the remark in light of the recent legal dispute between Petroliam Nasional Berhad (Petronas) and Petroleum Sarawak Berhad (Petros).

He emphasised that differences of opinion are normal and stressed the importance of maintaining proper decorum despite differing views.

“That is what we must uphold. What are the principles of maintaining decorum when we have differing views? First, when we differ in opinion, we debate to seek the truth. That is the important thing.

“Secondly, we must base our arguments on facts. Everything must be based on facts,” he said during a breaking-of-fast and media engagement session with the Sarawak media at an eatery here on Sunday.

The event was attended by his wife Datin Rosnih Nasir, his political secretary Ahmad Nazib Johari, and members of the media fraternity from 17 agencies based in Kuching.

He added that the matter should be left to the courts to decide.

“This is important. Once the court has made its decision, we can then move forward,” he said.

On the Malaysia Agreement 1963 Implementation Action Council (MTPMA63) Technical Committee meeting held on March 2 at Parliament in Kuala Lumpur, he reaffirmed that the rights of Sabah and Sarawak will continue to be defended.

“That is our right, especially as it is guaranteed by the Federal Constitution,” he stressed.

However, he reminded that as Malaysian citizens, it is everyone’s responsibility to play their respective roles in developing the state and, ultimately, the nation.