Sarawak’s autonomy is affirmation of federalism, not a challenge to It

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By Lian Cheng

KUCHING, Jan 30:  Safeguarding Sarawak’s autonomy has never meant undermining the Federal government but a reflection of Sarawakians’ long-held sentiments.

The statement which was issued by Sarawak United Peoples’ Party (SUPP) Youth Central echoed the forthright views expressed by Secretary General of Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) Dato Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi, who in a recent interview had reaffirmed Sarawak’s State-first approach. 

“We hope our counterparts in Peninsular Malaysia will approach this matter with greater openness and understanding.

“The pursuit of Sarawak’s rights and autonomy has always been firmly anchored in the Federal Constitution, the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), the Inter-Governmental Committee (IGC) Report, and relevant State laws,” said SUPP Youth Central.

They pointed out that GPS leaders, under the leadership of Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg have consistently upheld the foundational principle that Sarawak is one of the entities that formed Malaysia in 1963,  together with Malaya, Sabah, and Singapore—and must therefore be respected as an equal partner.

It is their view that beyond constitutional matters, the Sarawak Government has adopted inclusive and forward-looking policies with strong emphasis on education and economic development to build local talent and a resilient, sustainable economy. 

This commitment, to the SUPP Youth Central, is clearly demonstrated through the Free Tertiary Education Scheme, which benefits all Anak Sarawak pursuing higher education at Sarawak’s four state-owned universities.

In addition, Sarawak has taken bold and strategic steps in renewable energy development. The recent Sarawak–Sabah Power Grid Interconnection marks a significant milestone, with Sarawak officially supplying electricity to Sabah as part of the emerging Borneo Power Grid. This development positions Sarawak to play a larger and more meaningful role in regional energy cooperation and economic growth, they added.

“SUPP Youth Central rejects divisive politics and remain committed to build a united and harmonious society. 

“The actions and policies of our leaders speak for themselves: a stronger and more resilient Sarawak has always contributed to a stronger Malaysia. 

“Our sincerity in nation-building should never be doubted, even as we remain steadfast in safeguarding Sarawak’s constitutional rights,” said SUPP Youth Central.  — DayakDaily