KOTA KINABALU – PBS has slammed Sabah Star leader Datuk Seri Jeffrey Kitingan over his call to form a new Malaysia Agreement and federal constitution.
Its president, Datuk Seri Maximus Ongkili, said such proposals should not go unchecked, adding that “there are many things to be considered beyond the Malaysia Agreement 1963 itself”.
He said Jeffrey should not use the MA63 and federal constitution to stir up sentiments in a bid to further his political mileage.
The minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Sabah and Sarawak Affairs) said that, before abandoning MA63, one needs to know its defects, determine the wrongful parties and study the implications of taking action against the signatories of the agreement.
“We need to thoroughly study the weaknesses of MA63. If there are defects, we need to find out what (they are) and who did wrong. This is a delicate matter that needs better understanding. We must be very careful in reading these situations.
“So, do not talk about drafting a new agreement when you have not even done the necessary studies. Don’t stir political sentiments,” said Ongkili.
Recently, Jeffrey had proposed a new Malaysia Agreement and federal constitution for Sabah to move forward in Malaysia after the Sabah elections last year.
Ongkili said such calls should not arise as the merger to form Malaysia is akin to a marriage, and that the partners need to find out what went wrong before filing for divorce.
“It is like marriage. You must first find out what is wrong with your spouse, what he or she did wrong, and if you have all the evidence, then only can you file for divorce. It is the same here in this situation.”
However, Ongkili said it is also important to know what the implications are of abandoning MA63.
“The present government is doing what was never done before – addressing the shortcomings.
“We are already managing these defects, correcting matters that have been identified by the working committees under the Special Council on MA63 (MKMA63).
“We must understand that the MA63 is part of the Malaysia Act, which was tabled in Parliament, as well as the Sabah and Sarawak state legislative assemblies.
“If we want to establish a new agreement, it needs to be tabled in Parliament for both assemblies’ approval. It is a long process.”
Ongkili said that, rather than making unnecessary suggestions, Jeffrey should concentrate on ongoing efforts and, only if these fail, should the people judge.
“Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin is very accommodating, and has been very open, providing us enormous space to work, especially in addressing MA63 issues.
“Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor is also very sincere in spearheading efforts to restore our rights.
“Jeffrey should give opportunities for these initiatives to succeed rather than abandon the efforts in search of an indefinite and uncertain endeavour.” – The Vibes, May 11, 2021
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