KOTA KINABALU – Former communications and multimedia minister Datuk Seri Salleh Said Keruak has joined other East Malaysian leaders in calling for amendments to the federal constitution to reflect Sabah and Sarawak’s “wilayah” (regions) status.
He suggested that when Parliament reconvenes, there must be efforts to amend the federal constitution to ensure Sabah and Sarawak are equal partners in the federation of Malaysia.
“We need a two-thirds majority for such amendments and I believe the government and opposition should support it. Everybody is fighting for Sabah. Everybody is fighting for the MA63 (Malaysia Agreement 1963).
“I see no reason for the MPs in Sabah and Sarawak to not support this if they believe they are fighting for Sabah (and Sarawak) and if they are fighting for equal partnership.”
He said that he personally supports the change in status.
“For me, it means we are equal partners when we formed Malaysia. It’s in line with the MA63. Also, we have to include what autonomy we should have.
“What has been taken by the federal government must be returned. The constitution must be amended to make it clear.”
Salleh, who is also Usukan assemblyman, said there is yet to be an official statement from the government on the matter.
He added that those from the ruling party or the opposition must address the matter in a non-partisan approach.
“It must be looked at from a non-partisan point of view. When we talk about MA63 or Sabah’s rights, we should not politicise the issue,” he told reporters here today.
Salleh also sought to allay public fears that Sabah's rights might be watered down.
“We (Wilayah Sabah) are not going to be like the Federal Territory of Labuan. That is why I said we have to explain what “wilayah” here means.”
Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin, during his two-day working visit to Sarawak on April 1, reportedly said Sabah and Sarawak share the status of region along with Peninsular Malaysia, sparking a conversation on the issue.
According to the MA63, Sabah, Sarawak and Peninsular Malaysia – then known as Malaya – are equal partners and have equal rights to revenue and policymaking, among others. – The Vibes, April 10, 2021
