KOTA KINABALU: An interim measure on Sarawak’s long-standing claims is set to be announced during the Malaysia Day celebration in Kuching on Sept 16, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said today.
The announcement follows discussions under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), with Anwar saying he would continue talks with Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg over the coming days to finalise the details.
“God willing, on Sept 16 during the Malaysia Day celebration in Kuching, I will also announce an interim measure for Sarawak,” he told reporters after chairing the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MTPMA63) Implementation Action Council meeting here.
Anwar said Sarawak had also proposed introducing a formula to determine payments or settlements related to the state’s claims.
He said the formula should take into account the country’s financial position, the Federal Government’s fiscal capacity, as well as the minimum and maximum amounts that could be considered.
“I agree and have asked the Ministry of Finance and the Sarawak Ministry of Finance to discuss introducing the formula,” he said.
Anwar noted that although Sarawak’s claims do not fall under Article 112D of the Federal Constitution, unlike Sabah’s special grant arrangements, the same spirit should be applied in resolving the matter.
He said the Federal Government remained committed to finding a solution acceptable to both Putrajaya and Sarawak.
Discussions between the Ministry of Finance and the Sarawak Government on the proposed formula will continue in the coming days.
