KUCHING: Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof has called for stronger public understanding of the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).
This is because it remains central to preserving the spirit of Malaysia and safeguarding the constitutional rights of Sarawak and Sabah, he said.
He said many Malaysians, including some Members of Parliament, still have limited awareness of the historical and legal foundations that shaped Malaysia’s formation.
“There remains confusion over the formation of Malaysia, and MA63 is still not properly understood, even among some Members of Parliament,” he said at the ‘Boundless Horizons: A Sarawak Fireside Chat on Aspiration and Impact’ at the Pullman Hotel last night.
He stressed that efforts to restore MA63-related rights should not be viewed as political posturing, but as a constitutional process grounded in existing agreements and official documents.
“Our demands are not about taking everything, but are based on what is contained in MA63 and the IGC Report.
“The spirit of Malaysia must be revived through a clearer understanding of what was agreed upon at the time of formation, including matters that were meant to be implemented but have yet to be fully carried out,” he said.
Fadillah noted that MA63-related discussions continue through technical committees and formal platforms chaired at the federal level, aimed at refining and restoring state rights in a structured manner.
“Restoring those rights would strengthen national harmony by ensuring the federation operates in line with its original constitutional balance.
“When these rights are returned, it helps preserve unity and harmony in our country,” he said.
He said constitutional safeguards were necessary to prevent unilateral amendments that could affect the interests of the two Borneo states, including the roles of Sarawak and Sabah in parliament.
“Under the MA63 and IGC safeguards, Sabah’s and Sarawak’s interests must be protected, and one of the key safeguards lies in parliament, particularly when it comes to constitutional amendments that require a two-thirds majority.
“At present, parties from Peninsular Malaysia can combine to reach that threshold, making it possible for changes to be made without the agreement of Sabah and Sarawak.
“Hence, it is critical for East Malaysia to hold at least more than 25 per cent of parliamentary seats, to ensure these safeguards remain meaningful,” he said.
He added that a stable federal government was also essential to ensure national planning and policy implementation could be carried out effectively.
“A stable federal government is essential so that we can focus on administering the country, planning for economic recovery, and preparing for the future,” he said.
