Sabah Pakatan urges focus on MA63 gains amid RM16 billion controversy

THE controversy over the prime minister’s RM16 billion allocation to the state should not diminish the significance of the restoration of Sabah' rights under the Malaysia Agreement 1963, Sabah Pakatan Harapan said.

The PH state chapter called for a measured response to Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim remarks and urged focus what the federal government has done so far for Sabah.

"It cannot be ignored that this federal government has been able to agree on and settle a number of these matters under the Majlis Tindakan Penyelesaian Perjanjian Malaysia 1963 (MTPMA63)," it said in a statement.

The coalition was responding to criticism from various quarters, including lawyers and political leaders, who said Anwar had conflated federal financial commitments with Sabah’s constitutional revenue entitlement under the MA63 in a speech in Kota Kinabalu yesterday.

The statement was jointly issued by Sabah PH chairman Datuk Christina Liew, Upko president Ewon Benedick, Sabah PKR chairman Datuk Mustapha Sakmud, Sabah DAP chairman Datuk Frankie Poon, and Sabah Amanah chairman Lahirul Latigu.

The Sabah PH leaders highlighted several significant achievements under the federal administration, noting that for the first time in 61 years, several long-standing demands under MA63 are being addressed.

Among these, they cited the restoration of Sabah and Sarawak’s status within the Federation, the return of administrative authority over Pulau Sipadan and Pulau Ligitan, and the devolution of regulatory control over gas supply and electricity to the Sabah government.

“These developments are a positive step forward in recognising the special position of Sabah and Sarawak within Malaysia,” the statement added.

The leaders also pointed to the inclusion of the MA63 in the Federal Constitution and the amendment of Article 1(2) as milestones that demonstrate the federal government’s commitment to rectifying historical oversights.

They acknowledged the complexity of some of the issues, such as Sabah's 40% revenue claim, whiile emphasising on the need for continued dialogue.

"We must acknowledge that these discussions and negotiations are delicate and involve complex legislative matters that require thorough consideration."

However, they expressed confidence in Anwar's willingness to address the matters.

“Never in our nation’s history have we had a Prime Minister who is so transparent, respectful of historical agreements, and sincere in granting genuine financial empowerment to Sabah and Sarawak.

"We are hopeful and confident that under his leadership, what rightfully and constitutionally belongs to Sabah and Sarawak will be respected and delivered." – August 12, 2024.