MIRI: Sarawak has made significant progress in negotiations with Putrajaya over the state’s rights under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), including parliamentary representation and federal revenue sharing.
Sarawak Premier and Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) president Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had agreed to a mechanism aimed at ensuring Sabah and Sarawak’s representation in the Dewan Rakyat reflected the spirit of MA63.
He said the proposed approach would establish a ratio for parliamentary representation between the two Borneo states and Peninsular Malaysia.
“Alhamdulillah, our struggle has achieved results,” he told more than 3,800 delegates and observers attending the PBB Northern Zone Special Convention at Miri Indoor Stadium today (Sept 13).
On the special grant under Article 112D of the Federal Constitution, Abang Johari said Sarawak had proposed that the grant be determined through a formula taking into account the state’s revenue contribution and the Federal Government’s fiscal capacity.
He stressed that Sarawak was not seeking an unreasonable arrangement, but wanted a formula that would allow the state’s share to increase in line with any rise in its contribution to national revenue.
“Sarawak is very flexible. Sarawak is very rational. We are not demanding something unreasonable,” he said.
He added that discussions between Sarawak and Federal finance authorities on the mechanism were ongoing.
Abang Johari also said Sarawak had secured agreement in principle for tourism to be placed under the Concurrent List, arguing that tourism was not included in the original division of powers when Malaysia was formed in 1963.
He said the developments highlighted the importance of Sabah and Sarawak maintaining a united position in negotiations with Putrajaya.
“If we are united, our voice is strong. If we are divided, we cannot speak with one voice,” he said.
Abang Johari stressed that Sarawak’s MA63 agenda was not about separating from Malaysia, but about strengthening the state’s position as an equal partner within the federation.
“Our struggle is for the integrity of Malaysia,” he said.
He said Sarawak’s approach to the MA63 agenda was based on political stability, economic strength and cooperation rather than confrontation.
The Premier also described Sarawak’s political model as inclusive and non-toxic, saying the state must continue bringing together its diverse communities in pursuing development. The PBB Northern Zone Special Convention brought together delegates from 18 branches across northern Sarawak and was chaired by PBB Deputy President and Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan.
