Potentials of Sarawak’s own diplomatic relations

KUCHING: Fazzrudin Abdul Rahman believes that Sarawak’s potential to independently manage diplomatic relations can stimulate regional growth, showcase its economic prowess, and attract investments, particularly in the green economy and global energy transition.

The chief political secretary to the Premier stressed that establishing a unique foreign relations policy for Sarawak would facilitate the expansion of its sovereignty, including autonomy in immigration matters.

“This can be the next step in preserving Sarawak’s rights in line with the documents that form Malaysia, where Sarawak is an equal partner.

“As part of the Federation of Malaysia, our approaches and foreign policies must align with Wisma Putra to maintain the nation’s sovereignty and unity,” he stated.

“This means we can send a diplomatic mission abroad to represent Sarawak, negotiate on key issues, and ensure the safety and welfare of Sarawakians living abroad.” Highlighting Sarawak’s global reputation for environmental sustainability under Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg’s leadership, Fazzrudin stressed that diplomatic capabilities would strengthen government-to-government relationships and allow representation in international forums.

His comments followed a proposal by former Malaysian diplomat Syed Nizamuddin Sayed Khassim, suggesting that Sarawak establish its equivalent of a foreign ministry. Syed Nizamuddin noted Sarawak’s unintentional engagement in diplomatic endeavours through initiatives like Sarawak Energy Berhad and the Sarawak Trade and Tourism Office Singapore (STATOS).

On another note, Deputy Minister for Utility and Telecommunication, Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi, cautioned against direct comparisons with other constitutional models on subnational diplomacy.

He noted the importance of considering the delineation of powers between the federal government and state government, particularly in external affairs, diplomacy, consular matters, and trade representation, as outlined in Articles 74 and 77 of the Federal Constitution. “Our Constitution was mainly designed based on Westminster’s model, which is different from models in Quebec in Canada, Bavaria in Germany, and Flanders in Belgium.

“The authority of both governments is expounded in the Ninth Schedule, whereby external affairs, including diplomacy, consular, and trade representation, are under the purview of the federal government,” he said.