States should have more autonomy, says Umno leader

Sharkar Shamsudin said states should be allowed to design policies based on local needs, with the federal government focussing on national issues, Utusan Malaysia reported.

He said greater autonomy would make state governments more responsive in areas such as economic development, welfare and resource management.

“The federal government can still play an important balancing role, ensuring key national policies do not conflict with overall interests,” he was quoted as saying.

“This transformation does not signify division, but rather political maturity — allowing states and the federal government to maintain distinct identities while remaining united on key issues.”

Malaysia operates under a federal system. Key powers over taxation, education, health and major policies remain under the federal government. This has long fuelled debate over how much autonomy the various states should have.

The question of state autonomy has been most prominent in Sabah and Sarawak, where leaders continue to push for the restoration of rights under the Malaysia Agreement 1963.

Sharkar drew comparisons with mature federal systems abroad, noting that in the US, Germany and Australia, states hold substantial autonomous powers over areas such as education, health and taxation while remaining within a national framework.

“Varied approaches by the states and the federal government reflect political maturity rather than weakness.

“It is a strength that can produce a diversity of ideas and policies better suited to local realities,” he said.