KUCHING: Negotiations to restore one-third Parliamentary seats to Sarawak and Sabah is only a matter of formality.
Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) Vice-President, Datuk Ibrahim Baki, said this is because the claim by the two regions is already a constitutional safeguard provided through Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) and Inter-Government Committee (IGC) Report 1962.
“Prior to Malaysia’s formation, Tunku Abdul Rahman, pledged that Sarawak and Sabah be provided with one-third representation in Parliament, and this was implemented.
“This is a safeguard in the Constitution whereby laws cannot be passed without our say-so.
“When Singapore left the federation, that safeguard must be maintained.
“Therefore, there is no issue of negotiating (whether we can get the seats); there is nothing to negotiate as it is a mandatory constitutional safeguard.
“It must be given to us (Sarawak and Sabah) and we must claim our rights.
“Negotiations is a matter of formality or process. What has been enshrined (in MA63 and IGC) must be implemented,” he said.
He made these remarks when speaking during the PBB Satok Zone 3 Aidilfitri gathering at a hotel on Friday evening.
Ibrahim, who is also Utility (Sarawak Energy and PETROS) Deputy Minister, said the restoration of Sarawak rights is a cornerstone of PBB’s struggle which he vowed to uphold with his newly elevated position within the party.
“With greater position, comes bigger responsibilities.
“I am confident that I can shoulder the responsibilities given with your support, the people in PBB Satok.
“In PBB Satok, we work as a team and complete our struggle, particularly in the fight for Sarawak rights which have been eroded be it intentionally or unintentionally,” he said.
