‘No threats, no ultimatums’ in MA63 talks, says PM

Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. Photo credit: Sarawak Information Department (Japen)

By Shikin Louis & Amanda L

KUCHING, June 21: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today said negotiations between the federal and Sarawak governments on matters related to the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) have never involved threats or ultimatums, despite the complexities and criticisms surrounding the process.

He acknowledged that efforts to fulfil MA63 commitments have not been easy, often requiring careful deliberation and attracting criticism from various quarters.

“I do not assume these matters are easy. Many of my colleagues who have served as federal ministers understand how carefully these discussions must be conducted.

“We cannot escape objections, criticisms and accusations of selling away rights or dignity, while facing pressure and threats,” he said when speaking at the Sarawak-level Gawai Dayak 2026 Gala Dinner at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) tonight.

Anwar said the challenges were well understood by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, who chairs the MA63-related committee, as well as Sarawak representatives in the federal Cabinet, including Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi, Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing, Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang and Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri.

Nevertheless, he stressed that negotiations between the federal and Sarawak governments had always been conducted in a spirit of cooperation and mutual respect.

“But I have never felt, based on this spirit of cooperation and friendship, that there were any threats or ultimatums.

“This is a spirit of consensus and careful discussion. We have matured through experience, understand the spirit of the Constitution and the promises that were made, as well as the need to strengthen relations between the State and the federal government,” he added.

According to Anwar, both sides recognise that the time has come to fulfil commitments envisioned by the nation’s founding leaders.

He said previous leaders had also grappled with challenges involving ethnic sensitivities, regional interests and the need to build trust among various stakeholders.

“I believe past leaders also struggled with racial pressures, tribal pressures and the challenge of building trust and confidence. But they had the vision.

“Our task today is easier — it is simply to implement what was promised,” he said.

Anwar added that shortly after assuming office as Prime Minister, he initiated discussions with Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg on several longstanding issues involving the State’s rights and interests.

The Prime Minister also praised Sarawak’s leadership and administrative capabilities, saying the State has demonstrated its ability to govern effectively through competent leadership and sound management.

“If you manage the country well, understand the rules of governance, and put forward responsible and competent leaders, you are able to deliver.

“I salute Abang Johari and his team. They have shown they can deliver,” he said.

Anwar’s remarks came as the federal and Sarawak governments continue to work on resolving several outstanding MA63 matters, with both sides repeatedly expressing commitment to strengthening federal-State relations through consultation and mutual understanding. — DayakDaily