KUCHING: Local opposition figures and commentators must act responsibly when discussing sensitive issues involving oil and gas ownership, revenue sharing and Sarawak’s constitutional position.
Practising lawyer Wejok Tomik warned that irresponsible or politically motivated statements could create unrealistic public expectations and undermine Sarawak’s ongoing efforts to secure its rights through lawful and negotiated means.
Wejok noted that the Petroleum Development Act 1974 (PDA 1974) and the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) are frequently invoked in political debates, especially during election periods.
“Constructive discussion is welcome, but constitutional rights should not be reduced to campaign rhetoric or social media soundbites.
“Sarawak’s interests are best protected through unity, informed discourse and respect for due process,” he said in response to a statement by a local opposition figure on social media.
The Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) Supreme Council member reiterated Sarawak’s firm position that PDA 1974 is not applicable in Sarawak without endorsement by the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly (DUN).
He explained that following the revocation of the Emergency Ordinance 1969 in 2011, the mechanism allowing federal laws to be extended to Sarawak without DUN approval had ceased.
“As a result, PDA 1974 applies only in the States of Malaya and does not automatically extend to Sarawak,” he said .
In this regard, Wejok said calls by local opposition parties, including Party Bumi Kenyalang (PBK), for the Sarawak Government to move a parliamentary motion to repeal PDA 1974 were misdirected.
“Such demands should be addressed to the Prime Minister, not to the Sarawak Government. They are inconsistent with Sarawak’s constitutional position,” he added .
Wejok also urged opposition figures not to politicise Sarawak’s takeover of Bintulu Port from the Federal Government, describing it as a brilliant, well-calculated and long-term strategic move that places Sarawak firmly on the path of economic sovereignty, constitutional balance, and sustainable growth.
By taking ownership of Bintulu Port, Sarawak can secure control over the export of its own resources, align port policy with state development priorities, strengthen downstream industrialisation, and ensure strategic infrastructure serves Sarawak’s long-term interests.
He further added that the move was substantive rather than symbolic, strengthening Sarawak’s economic position while reflecting sound governance and cooperative federalism.
“This is a practical implementation of MA63. It shows that Federal-State issues can be resolved through negotiation, autonomy can be strengthened without confrontation, and national unity need not be compromised,” he said.
“The Bintulu Port takeover demonstrated federalism working as intended – benefiting both Sarawak and Malaysia as a whole . A win for Sarawak, a win for Malaysia,” he said.
