(Kuching, 12th) Sarawak's Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Datuk Chen Chaoyao, stated that as part of the 1963 Malaysia Agreement discussions, the restoration of Sarawak's autonomy in tourism is still actively being negotiated. Both the federal and Sarawak governments are committed to advancing this initiative and revitalizing the industry.
He cited Article 77 of the Federal Constitution, which stipulates that tourism should fall under state legislative authority, as it is considered a residual matter not specified in any list (federal, state, or concurrent) in the Ninth Schedule.
“However, the Federal Constitution was amended in 1994 to include 'Item 25A (Tourism)' in the Ninth Schedule list (federal list). We believe this amendment was made without the consent of the states, including Sarawak.”
He responded this way today while answering a question from Datuk Ro Kiang during a Q&A session in the Sarawak Parliament.
Chen Chaoyao explained that although tourism may not have been recognized as a major industry in 1963, since then it has become a significant source of revenue for Sarawak and the nation.
In the spirit of cooperation, he stated that the Sarawak government is prepared to share this authority with the federal government, advocating for tourism to be listed in the concurrent list.
He said Sarawak recently reiterated its stance that Item 25A (Tourism) should be moved to the concurrent list.
“This position was communicated at the recent Malaysia Agreement 1963 Implementation Action Committee meeting chaired by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar on September 12, with the aim of addressing the interests of both the federal and Sarawak governments.”
He said that the Prime Minister then instructed the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia to re-engage in discussions with the Sarawak and Sabah governments to reach a consensus among all relevant parties.
“My department remains committed to dialogues and negotiations with the Malaysian Ministry of Tourism regarding our proposal to amend Item 25A ('Tourism') from Schedule (Federal List) to Schedule III (Concurrent List), thus granting parallel powers to the federal and Sarawak governments.”
He further explained that his department will work closely with the Deputy Minister of the Prime Minister's Department (Law, MA63, and Federal-State Relations), Datuk Hasida, and the State Attorney's Office.
“This collaboration is crucial in ensuring Sarawak gains the necessary administrative power to manage and regulate the state's tourism. Through implementing this change, we aim to enhance Sarawak's autonomy in managing its tourism industry, aligning with our unique needs and opportunities, while promoting industry growth and development.”
Chen Chaoyao believes that autonomous tourism rights will bring significant benefits to Sarawak, allowing more flexibility in tourism development.
“This will involve formulating local laws, particularly to attract investment in tourism infrastructure, enhance the capacity of the local workforce, and leverage connectivity and facilities assets.”
Additionally, he also mentioned that the department will prioritize the key tourism areas outlined in Sarawak's Post-COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) for 2030.