SARAWAK’s pursuit of its rights under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) is not intended to challenge the country’s federal system, said state Premier Abang Johari Tun Openg during a conference of parliament and state legislative assembly speakers in Kuching.

He explained that the aim is to affirm and uphold the rights and privileges already enshrined in the federal constitution and the MA63.

“Our demands are rooted in the MA63, which remains the cornerstone of our union. This agreement was designed to ensure that Sarawak’s unique position and rights within Malaysia are preserved and respected,” he said during his opening address at the three-day conference.

The premier highlighted Sarawak’s engagement in diplomatic discussions with the federal government, along with the ability of both the state and federal governments to resolve issues constructively. He said this was evidence of the strength of Malaysia’s federalism and the positive, cooperative relationship between the federal and Sarawak government.

Abang Johari emphasised that Sarawak’s pursuit of autonomy over its natural resources is not an act of anti-federalism but a reaffirmation of federal principles that recognise Sarawak’s rights and unique status within the federation.

“The MA63 was not crafted to undermine the federation but to strengthen it. Our recent strides in managing our natural resources are entirely consistent with the federal constitution.

“Sarawak, far from overstepping its bounds, is exercising the authority it has been constitutionally granted.

“The management of our oil and gas, for instance, falls squarely within the rights recognised under the constitution,” he said, in response to a news report quoting a federal government official who mentioned that Petronas might consider legal action against Sarawak over the loss of its role as the gas aggregator in Sarawak.

Abang Johari stressed that Sarawak’s assertion of autonomy remains within a federal framework, not a deviation from it.

He likened Sarawak’s approach to the role played by the speakers of their respective legislative assemblies.

“Just as you ensure that legislative proceedings are conducted within the parameters set by the constitution, Sarawak acts within the constitutional limits set by the federal constitution.

“The same guiding principles that govern legislative bodies – respect for the constitution, adherence to agreed frameworks, and upholding the rule of law – are the principles that guide Sarawak’s actions,” he said. – September 13, 2024.