Premier: MA63 rights, special position of Sabah and S’wak must be recognised nationally

57 minutes ago 6

ADVERTISE HERE

By Amanda L

KUCHING, Sept 16: Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has called for the rights and special position of Sabah and Sarawak to be formally recognised as a national agenda.

Speaking at the Malaysia Day 2026 celebration at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) tonight, he noted that the federal government’s commitment to balanced development—including recognising the potential of both Bornean states—is a positive step forward.

“I hope these commitments foster a broader understanding that the recognition of Sabah and Sarawak’s rights and special position is fundamentally a national agenda,” he said.

Abang Johari emphasised that a comprehensive approach to regional development strengthens national unity by ensuring all citizens feel respected, valued and prioritised.

Earlier in his address, the Premier welcomed the federal government’s agreement in principle to increase parliamentary representation for Sabah and Sarawak to at least one-third. This move aligns with the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) and the Inter-Governmental Committee (IGC) Report.

He also expressed gratitude to the federal government for agreeing to establish a revenue-sharing formula with Sarawak under Article 112(D) of the Federal Constitution.

This follows Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s recent statement that any future increase in parliamentary seats must ensure the representation ratio for Sabah and Sarawak exceeds current levels.

On Sept 11, this agreement was reached during the Malaysia Agreement 1963 Implementation Action Council (MTPMA63) meeting in Kota Kinabalu. — DayakDaily

Read Entire Article