Sarawak cannot be compared to other states due to MA63 safeguards, says minister

Abdul Karim in a press conference after officiating the launch of the BIMP-EAGA Tourism Exchange 2026 at Waterfront Hotel on June 24, 2026.

By Dayangku Hidayatul

KUCHING, June 24: Sarawak cannot be compared to other states in Malaysia as it holds distinct constitutional rights enshrined under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), says Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.

Speaking at a press conference after officiating the BIMP-EAGA Tourism Exchange 2026 at Waterfront Hotel today, he said Sarawak’s position within the federation is unique and rooted in the very formation of Malaysia.

“When it comes to Sarawak, I dare say we cannot be compared to other states in Malaysia,” he said.

Abdul Karim was responding to a question regarding a 2024 video in which Johor Crown Prince Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim praised Sarawak’s political stability under Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) and suggested that a unified political voice could help prevent marginalisation by the federal government.

He said the remarks were appreciated but declined to comment further on the political suggestion.

“That is his view, and we appreciate it. We are happy to hear it. Naturally, when we are praised, we feel a little proud. But we take it as it is. We are part of a federation,” he said.

Abdul Karim reiterated that Malaysia was formed through an agreement involving Malaya, Singapore (which later split from Malaysia in 1965), Sabah and Sarawak, with Sabah and Sarawak retaining special safeguards under MA63.

He stressed that Sarawak’s rights are clearly provided for in the Federal Constitution, including immigration autonomy and territorial matters.

“For example, when we travel to Peninsular Malaysia, there are no immigration checks. But visitors entering Sarawak are subject to immigration control. That is one of our retained rights,” he said.

He also pointed to territorial provisions, including Sarawak’s claim over its continental shelf as outlined under the Sarawak Land Code.

On resource matters such as oil and gas, he said Sarawak maintains its position based on historical and legal foundations.

Abdul Karim added that Sarawak continues to engage in negotiations with the federal government to restore rights it believes have eroded over time.

He cited tourism as one such area of concern, noting that it is not explicitly listed under the Federal, State or Concurrent Lists at the time Malaysia was formed.

“That is why we are advocating for tourism to be placed under the Concurrent List so both the federal and State governments can share responsibility. The cake is big, we share. Jangan tamak (don’t be greeduy),” he said.

He, however, stressed that Sarawak is not seeking full control, but rather a fair and balanced distribution of responsibilities within the federation.- DayakDaily