KUCHING: The younger generation must be equipped with in-depth knowledge of the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) to ensure that Sarawak’s rights continue to be safeguarded beyond 2030.
Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department (Law, MA63 and Federal-State Relations), Datuk Sharifah Hasidah Sayeed Aman Ghazali, said understanding MA63 is vital as the agreement has enabled Sarawak to reclaim and strengthen its rights, significantly contributing to state revenue.
“Under the leadership of Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, we have amended the Federal Constitution to incorporate MA63 as part of it, which recognises Sarawak as a region and a founding entity in the formation of Malaysia.
“This achievement is also significant as it has allowed Sarawak to impose a five per cent sales tax on exported petroleum products, thereby generating an additional RM3 billion to RM4 billion annually, raising state revenue to RM14.2 billion last year.
“This success can only be sustained if we nurture and support our children, who will carry forward Sarawak government’s struggles beyond 2030,” she said when speaking at the Malay Muslim Outstanding Students Awards Ceremony at the Merdeka Palace Hotel today.
Later, she also announced a contribution of RM10,000 to the Sarawak Malay National Association (PKMS) in support of their efforts.
Meanwhile, PKMS President, Dr Wan Ali Tuanku Madhi, said the awards for the outstanding students serve as an encouragement for them to continue striving for academic excellence.
“Investment in education is the best investment as it produces a future generation capable of preserving the heritage of our community while supporting national progress.
“Our children must be prepared with knowledge, soft skills and a strong foundation in religion so that they do not fall behind in the currents of development and education,” he said.
He added that a total of 159 students received the award, including 68 Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) candidates, three of whom achieved 9A+ and 83 Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) recipients.
“In addition, awards were also given to two recipients of First-Class Honours Master’s Degrees, four recipients of Bachelor’s Degree programmes at local and international public higher learning institutions, as well as two Master’s Degree holders.
“Each recipient received incentives according to their achievements, namely RM1,000 for SPM 9A+, RM500 for those passing all SPM subjects, RM700 for STPM, RM1,000 for Bachelor’s Degree, while First-Class Honours and Master’s Degree recipients each received RM2,000,” he added.
