Now to resolve MA63 issues, says Dr Sim

KUCHING: With Sarawak achieving much success last year, next is for the state to address crucial issues under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) and speed up the implementation of the Post-Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030.

Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian said 2023 was a good year for Sarawak where it achieved so much because of its unity, peace, and political stability.

“For 2024, there is a lot of work to do for Sarawak’s nation building. We have to address crucial issues like MA63, especially matters concerning health autonomy and education autonomy.

“We want to have a fair formula of our share from taxation collected from the federal government.

“In addition to that, we also want to push for one-third parliamentary seats for Sabah and Sarawak to empower our MPs to safeguard against potential constitutional changes which might benefit West Malaysia but are harmful to us,” he said in a video message posted on his social media account.

Dr Sim, who is also the Public Health, Housing and Local Government Minister, said the implementation of the PCDS 2030 should be speeded up so that the Sarawakians can benefit and enjoy the prosperity, inclusivity, and environmental sustainability sooner than the set goal of 2030.

“One of the benefits that may be implemented is the provision of free tertiary education for Sarawakian students at its state-owned universities,” he said.

The Batu Kawah assemblyman appealed to Sarawakians to assist in Sarawak’s progress.

“Instead of jealousy from some in Malaysia, let’s inspire and show them the way. We can be their leading example for a better nation. They don’t have to ‘tengok saja’ (look and see only),” he said.

He stressed that as Sarawak gets more autonomy, it is also important to remain united.

“This is important so that no one can hold us back anymore . This is our chance to shine. Let’s play our part for our Ibu Pertiwi (motherland), wherever we are. Together, let’s usher in Sarawak’s golden era sooner.

“With that, I would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone good health, abundance opportunity, happiness and progress,” added Dr Sim.