(Kuching, 14th) — Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari stated that defending Sarawak’s rights must start with a correct understanding of history and the nation’s constitutional structure; currently, many among the younger generation lack sufficient knowledge of the historical basis safeguarding the rights of Sarawak and Sabah.
He pointed out last night (January 13) at the Hikmah Exchange Event Centre (HEEC) in Kuching, during the “Townhall 9 Tahun Bersama YAB Premier Sarawak” forum, that a lack of awareness of history and the constitution has led to misunderstandings among society about the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) and the rights it confers.
Abang Johari emphasized that Sarawak will never compromise in defending the rights granted under MA63 and reiterated that the state government is not seeking additional privileges, but insists on claiming rights to which it is lawfully entitled.
He said: “We are not asking for more, we are only asking for the rights that rightfully belong to us under MA63. We will continue to work to ensure these rights are upheld and respected.”
He explained that the MA63 is the core document for the formation of Malaysia, and it is especially important for the younger generation to understand it in depth. One key provision involves the allocation of seats in Parliament.
He said: “Sarawak and Sabah are entitled to one-third of the seats in Parliament, as we are key components in the formation of Malaysia. Without Sarawak and Sabah, there would be no Malaysia as it is today.”
He added that respecting this provision is crucial to ensuring fairness under the federal system, as well as to upholding the spirit of the founding agreement.
Abang Johari also reminded that failure to take the rights conferred by MA63 seriously will undermine the fairness within Malaysia’s federal structure; he further emphasized that Sarawak is committed to balanced and equitable development, and maintaining these rights is vital for the country’s long-term stability and overall fairness.
He pointed out last night (January 13) at the Hikmah Exchange Event Centre (HEEC) in Kuching, during the “Townhall 9 Tahun Bersama YAB Premier Sarawak” forum, that a lack of awareness of history and the constitution has led to misunderstandings among society about the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) and the rights it confers.
Abang Johari emphasized that Sarawak will never compromise in defending the rights granted under MA63 and reiterated that the state government is not seeking additional privileges, but insists on claiming rights to which it is lawfully entitled.
He explained that the MA63 is the core document for the formation of Malaysia, and it is especially important for the younger generation to understand it in depth. One key provision involves the allocation of seats in Parliament.
He said: “Sarawak and Sabah are entitled to one-third of the seats in Parliament, as we are key components in the formation of Malaysia. Without Sarawak and Sabah, there would be no Malaysia as it is today.”
He added that respecting this provision is crucial to ensuring fairness under the federal system, as well as to upholding the spirit of the founding agreement.
Abang Johari also reminded that failure to take the rights conferred by MA63 seriously will undermine the fairness within Malaysia’s federal structure; he further emphasized that Sarawak is committed to balanced and equitable development, and maintaining these rights is vital for the country’s long-term stability and overall fairness.