KUCHING: Respecting the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) and the Inter-Governmental Committee (IGC) Report is fundamental to preserving the spirit behind Malaysia’s formation.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan said the two documents are not merely historical records but reflect the understanding, assurances and spirit underpinning the formation of the Federation of Malaysia.
“Respecting MA63 and the IGC Report means respecting the spirit of Malaysia itself — a federation built on trust, mutual respect and recognition of the rights and interests of all parties,” he mentioned in his special Malaysia Day 2026 message.
Awang Tengah shared that more than six decades after Malaysia’s formation, Sarawak has undergone significant transformation, supported by stronger economic growth and growing investor confidence.
He revealed Sarawak recorded more than RM116 billion in investments from domestic direct investment (DDI) and foreign direct investment (FDI) over the five years since 2021.
However, he stressed that progress should not be measured by figures alone.
He said meaningful development must translate into a better future, quality education, well-paying jobs and wider economic opportunities for the people.
“When a family, whether in an urban or rural area, is able to enjoy a better quality of life, that is a Sarawak that is changing — a developed, high-income Sarawak,” he added.
Awang Tengah also stressed that Malaysia’s advantage lies in the strength of the regions and states that form the federation.
“When Sarawak progresses, Malaysia changes. When Sarawak prospers, Malaysia becomes more prosperous,” he added.
He also called on Malaysians to continue preserving unity and strengthening the spirit of togetherness that formed the foundation of the nation.
This, he said, is vital to ensure that the achievements of today can be carried forward for future generations.
