SUPP Youth backs Sarawak’s court move; says State must be heard, respected as equal partner

SUPP Youth logo

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, Feb 24: Sarawak must be heard and respected as an equal partner in Malaysia, says Sarawak United Peoples’ Party (SUPP) Youth Central, as it backs the State government’s move to seek constitutional clarity on petroleum laws.

The youth wing firmly supported the Sarawak government’s decision to file a petition in the Federal Court of Malaysia to determine the constitutional validity and continued applicability of the Petroleum Development Act 1974, the Continental Shelf Act 1966, and the Petroleum Mining Act 1966 in relation to Sarawak.

“The Federal Constitution of Malaysia under Article 162 expressly preserves all pre-Malaysia laws in force within Sarawak.

“This means that laws enacted prior to Malaysia Day continue to remain valid and cannot be unilaterally disregarded by the Federal Government or Petronas.

“This includes the Oil Mining Ordinance 1958, as well as matters relating to petroleum and mineral resources which fall under the State List as provided in the Ninth Schedule,” added SUPP Youth Central in a statement yesterday (Feb 23).

SUPP Youth Central said Sarawak has consistently pursued the management of its natural resources in accordance with State laws that are constitutionally safeguarded to protect the interests of Sarawak and all Sarawakians.

“It is therefore appropriate for the State to seek judicial interpretation on how subsequent federal legislation, including the Petroleum Development Act 1974, interacts with Sarawak’s preserved legislative powers.”

While acknowledging that certain narratives have emerged in Peninsular Malaysia that emphasise national interests, the youth wing stressed that such considerations must not come at the expense of Sarawak’s constitutional rights.

“These rights are deeply rooted in the constitutional framework that formed Malaysia in 1963 and reflect the strong sentiments of Sarawakians that our voices must be heard.

“The recognition and respect of Sarawak’s State laws are essential for us to collectively build a stronger, fairer and more united Malaysia for the benefit of all,” said the youth wing. — DayakDaily