KUCHING: Senator Datuk Ahmad Ibrahim has called for proposals to extend Bumiputera status to third-generation non-native communities in Sarawak to be pursued through federal policy channels rather than political rhetoric at the state level.
His remarks came in response to Julau MP Datuk Larry Sng’s criticism of Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) leaders for what he described as “pin-drop silence” on the issue, following renewed debate linked to historical interpretations of Brooke-era law.
Ahmad said Sng’s remarks on his Facebook post appeared to touch not only on SUPP but also the broader leadership of Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS), and therefore warranted a balanced and fact-based response.
He stressed that the proposal involved constitutional implications and should not be treated as a minor matter.
“The proposal to extend Bumiputera status to third-generation non-natives or any other communities is not a minor matter.
“It involves national policy, legal frameworks and the delicate social balance that has been carefully maintained over time,” he said in a statement today.
Ahmad noted that Sarawak had long practised a pragmatic and inclusive approach to governance, including during earlier administrative periods when diversity was managed with flexibility rather than rigid categorisation.
“This underscores that inclusivity is not new to Sarawak — it has long been part of the state’s governance DNA,” he said.
However, he cautioned against framing the issue in ways that could create misconceptions about Sarawak’s position or the stance of GPS leadership.
“Such issues should not be reduced to political rhetoric or framed in a way that may create misconceptions about Sarawak’s position or the stance of GPS leadership.
“In reality, any meaningful change to Bumiputera policy must be addressed at the federal level,” he added.
Ahmad also pointed to Sarawak’s recognition of the Unified Examination Certificate (UEC) during the tenure of the late Adenan Satem as an example of the state’s inclusive and pragmatic governance approach, while noting national recognition of the qualification remained unresolved.
“As a Member of Parliament, Larry Sng has the platform and access to bring such matters forward. With his close working relationship with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, it would be more appropriate to focus on advancing these issues through federal policy channels,” he said.
He added that Sarawak should not be treated as a testing ground for proposals that had yet to achieve national consensus.
At the same time, Ahmad said efforts to secure federal recognition of UEC and advance the Bumiputera status proposal towards a clear national policy outcome would deserve acknowledgement if successfully achieved.
He also stressed the importance of delivering tangible outcomes at the constituency level, saying mature politics required responsibility and results rather than proposals alone.
“I believe Sarawak’s current leadership will continue to uphold unity, stability and mutual respect in managing its diverse society,” he said.
