‘We must neither forget our history’: Kota Sentosa rep urges preservation of MA63 records

Yap during the debate of the Sarawak State Library (Amendment) Bill at DUS complex on Oct 13, 2026. Photo: Sarawak Information Dept (Japen)

By Dayangku Hidayatul

KUCHING, Oct 13: Sarawak’s efforts to safeguard its rights under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) must be backed by authentic historical records and a clear understanding of the State’s constitutional position, says Kota Sentosa assemblyman Wilfred Yap.

Debating the Sarawak State Library (Amendment) Bill at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUS) complex today, Yap said preserving historical documents and accounts of those who witnessed Malaysia’s formation was crucial to helping future generations understand Sarawak’s place in the Federation.

“As we continue to pursue Sarawak’s development and address matters relating to our rights under MA63, let us ensure that the next generation inherits more than our aspirations.

“Let them also inherit the documents, knowledge and historical understanding necessary to appreciate the journey that brought us here,” he said.

Yap said the proposed amendment went beyond administrative changes, as it would strengthen efforts to preserve and showcase Sarawak’s historical heritage.

He said a well-established Memorial Archive could preserve and exhibit materials relating to Malaysia’s formation, including historical documents, agreements, photographs, correspondence, official publications and records of Sarawak’s founding leaders.

Such records would help students, researchers and the public understand the circumstances surrounding Malaysia’s formation, the considerations of Sarawak’s leaders at the time and the safeguards intended to protect the interests of the State and its people.

Yap said discussions on MA63 and Sarawak’s constitutional position must be informed by historical facts, authentic documents and a proper understanding of the constitutional framework, rather than incomplete accounts, political rhetoric or unverified information.

“We must neither forget our history nor allow our understanding of it to be shaped solely by incomplete accounts, political rhetoric or information circulated without proper verification,” he said.

He stressed that preserving historical records was not about reopening old divisions, but strengthening public understanding and encouraging informed discussions on Sarawak’s relationship with the Federation.

He added that the State’s history extended beyond prominent leaders and major political events to include ordinary people who educated children, built communities, preserved traditions and guided their people through difficult times.

Yap said the Sarawak State Library, through the strengthened framework proposed under the amendment, could help ensure the State’s historical heritage remained protected, accessible and appreciated, allowing future generations to understand the past and shape Sarawak’s future with confidence. – DayakDaily