KUCHING: The increase in parliamentary seats for Sabah and Sarawak to secure at least one-third representation in the Dewan Rakyat must be prioritised to protect the rights of both regions as equal partners in the formation of Malaysia.
Persatuan Intelektual Pribumi Sarawak (PERANTIS) adviser Wellie Henry Majang said an addition of at least 29 seats for the two territories is crucial to restore the original safeguard agreed upon during the formation of Malaysia.
He stressed that Sabah and Sarawak’s current combined representation falls short of one-third, weakening their ability to safeguard regional rights, particularly when it comes to major national policy decisions and constitutional amendments.
“The one-third allocation was intended to ensure the voices and interests of Sabah and Sarawak are not sidelined. Without it, our MA63 protection becomes vulnerable,” he said in a statement.
Wellie highlighted that the Cobbold Commission had clearly emphasised the need for “safeguards” for both regions prior to the establishment of Malaysia.
He pointed out that since constitutional amendments require a two-thirds majority in Parliament, Sabah and Sarawak must hold at least one-third of parliamentary seats to retain meaningful influence.
He also welcomed the recent amendment to Article 1(2) of the Federal Constitution, which formally reinstates Sarawak as an equal partner to Peninsular Malaysia.
However, he noted that this recognition must be matched by fairer expenditure provisions and a more balanced allocation of parliamentary seats.
“Sabah and Sarawak are not just states like those in Peninsular Malaysia. We are founding partners of Malaysia with equal rights, and this must be reflected structurally, not just symbolically,” he said.
Wellie further stressed the need for active MPs from both regions to uphold and defend these rights, adding that Sabah and Sarawak would continue to serve as a political stabilising force at the federal level.
