KUALA LUMPUR – There is no need for the government to rebrand Sabah and Sarawak as mainland Malaysia, as the existing term “East Malaysia” used to refer to the two states is sufficient.
This was the explanation given by deputy minister in charge of Sabah and Sarawak affairs Datuk Hanifah Hajar Taib (Mukah-GPS), when asked by Datuk Seri Wilfred Madius Tangau (Tuaran-Upko) if the government intends to rename the Bornean states as “Tanah Besar Malaysia”.
In his question, Madius said Sabah and Sarawak currently make up 60% of the land size of Malaysia, while the Federation of Malaya has long been named Peninsular Malaysia.
Speaking in the Dewan Rakyat, Hanifah said based on a check by the Attorney-General’s Chambers, the term “mainland Malaysia” has never been used in the federal constitution or other existing laws in the country.
She added that the terms “East Malaysia” and “Peninsular Malaysia” are defined under the Interpretation Acts 1948 and 1967, with the former referring to Sabah and Sarawak.
Hanifah said the terms are mentioned multiple times under several different legislations such as the immigration act.
“As such, the government is of the opinion that the existing terms in the law as explained earlier is sufficient. Additionally, the proposal to amend Article 1(2) as provided under the Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2021, if passed, will again refer Sabah and Sarawak as Bornean states.”
Unimpressed by the answer, Madius urged the government to review this decision, saying it would be unwise to allow any Malaysian to feel cast aside.
He said politicians today have also clearly stated intentions of wanting Sabah and Sarawak out of Malaysia, especially with the promise of 30% of the national budget allocation to the two states not fulfilled.
“Last time we had East and West Pakistan, and finally East Pakistan became Bangladesh.
“In Malaysia, the peninsula used to be known as West Malaysia. But this term is no longer used. The same can be said about East Malaysia. It’s no longer in use, but we refer to the states as Sabah and Sarawak.
“Perhaps, we shouldn’t just look at what is written in the law. We are looking at an imagined community. Don’t allow any Malaysian to feel left out or feel (like they are) not part of this country.”
To this, Hanifah said any rebranding to any state would carry little significance, as it would only be used for easy reference.
“It doesn’t add or subtract anything special to any of the states. God willing, if there is a need, then we will look at it.” – The Vibes, December 1, 2021
