Sarawak asserts MA63 rights to strengthen Federation, not challenge it, says Premier

Seated from left: Asfia, Abang Johari, Awang Bemee and Johari with others photographed during the Conference of Speakers of Parliament and State Legislative Assemblies of Malaysia held at Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUS) Complex, Kuching on Sept 13, 2024. Photo credit: Ukas

By Shikin Louis

KUCHING, Sept 13: Sarawak’s pursuit on its rights under Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) are not intended to challenge the Federal system but to affirm and uphold the rights and privileges that are already enshrined in the Federal Constitution and MA63.

Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg emphasised that the Sarawak government’s diplomatic engagement with the federal government and its constructive resolution of issues demonstrate the strength of Malaysia’s federalism and the positive, cooperative relationship between the two governments.

“Our demands are rooted in MA63, which remains the cornerstone of our union. This agreement was designed to ensure that Sarawak’s unique position and rights within Malaysia are preserved and respected.

“In this spirit, Sarawak’s pursuit of autonomy over its own natural resources, is not an act of anti-federalism but a reaffirmation of federal principles that recognise the rights and unique status of Sarawak within the Federation,” he said during the opening ceremony of Conference of Speakers of Parliament and State Legislative Assemblies of Malaysia held at Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUS) Complex here today.

Abang Johari highlighted that MA63 was intended to strengthen the Federation, not undermine it.

He added that Sarawak’s recent advancements in managing its natural resources align with the Federal Constitution.

“Sarawak, far from overstepping its bounds, is exercising the authority it has been constitutionally granted.

“The management of our oil and gas, for instance, falls squarely within the rights recognised under the Constitution. This is an assertion of Sarawak’s autonomy within a federal framework, not a departure from it,” he stressed.

Abang Johari further explained that Sarawak’s rights over its continental shelf are firmly rooted in historical and legal precedents, particularly the Sarawak (Alteration of Boundaries) Order in Council 1954.

“By asserting these rights, Sarawak is not attempting to diminish the Federation but is instead contributing to its strength by ensuring that Sarawak can develop its resources responsibly and sustainably,” he added.

Also present were Dewan Negara president Dato Awang Bemee Awang Ali Basah, Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Dato Johari Abdul and DUS Speaker Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Asfia Awang Nassar. – DayakDaily