STARSabah backs King’s call to uphold MA63, state rights

KOTA KINABALU (Jan 20): Parti Solidariti Tanah Airku (STARSabah) has expressed its full support for the Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Ibrahim, following His Majesty’s royal address reaffirming that the formation of Malaysia is anchored on the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), which recognises Sabah and Sarawak as founding partners of the Federation.

STARSabah Information Chief Anuar Ghani Gilong said the royal address delivered a clear and timely message that the spirit of MA63 must continue to be upheld to safeguard national harmony, regional justice, and political stability.

In His Majesty’s address at the opening of the First Meeting of the Fifth Session of the 15th Parliament, he stressed that the MA63 spirit should be preserved as a fundamental pillar of unity and fairness within the Federation.

Anuar said STARSabah welcomed the Agong’s call for elected representatives from Sabah and Sarawak to play a constructive role in defending state rights through constitutional means and in the spirit of consensus.

Anuar said STARSabah welcomed the Agong’s call for elected representatives from Sabah and Sarawak to play a constructive role in defending state rights through constitutional means and in the spirit of consensus.

“The rights of Sabah and Sarawak enshrined in MA63 are not divisive in nature. They are part of the original agreement that led to the formation of Malaysia and must therefore be respected by all,” he said in a statement.

He added that the stance echoed the long-standing struggle of STARSabah President Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Jeffrey Kitingan, who has consistently championed the restoration of Sabah’s rights under MA63, including the 40 per cent net revenue entitlement, greater state autonomy and recognition of Sabah’s position as an equal partner in the Federation.

“The MA63 struggle led by Dr Jeffrey is firmly grounded in the Constitution and the spirit of federalism, in line with the Agong’s reminder that differences should be managed prudently and not exploited to inflame regional sentiments,” Anuar said.

He said STARSabah believed Malaysia’s unity and sovereignty could only be strengthened through mutual respect, understanding of state autonomy and close cooperation between the Federal Government and state governments, as emphasised by His Majesty.

STARSabah, he added, would remain committed to upholding MA63 in its pursuit of regional justice, the welfare of the people and a stable future for the Federation.