KUCHING: Tamin assemblyman Christopher Gira Sambang has proposed that the history of Malaysia’s formation and the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) be taught more comprehensively in national schools.
Gira, who is also Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS) Youth chief, said young Malaysians should understand how Malaysia was formed on Sept 16, 1963, the respective roles of the Federation of Malaya, Sarawak, Sabah and, at that time, Singapore, as well as the rights and responsibilities enshrined in MA63.
His statement follows the recent discussion on MA63 in the Keluar Sekejap podcast and subsequent responses from academics and community leaders.
While welcoming constructive discussions on MA63, Gira said such discourse must be grounded in historical facts, the Federal Constitution and official documents, including the Malaysia Agreement 1963, the Inter Governmental Committee (IGC) Report and the Cobbold Commission Report.
“Historical facts should not be selectively interpreted or misrepresented in ways that may mislead the public,” he said in a statement today.
Gira said PRS’ priority today was not merely debating history but ensuring the full implementation of the rights and responsibilities agreed upon under MA63.
He said the progress achieved through negotiations between the federal government and the government of Sarawak should continue until all outstanding matters were resolved.
“Education based on historical facts and constitutional principles will provide students with a more accurate understanding of the foundation of our nation.
“This is the best way to prevent confusion arising from inaccurate or incomplete interpretations of history,” he said.
Gira said he firmly believed education was the most effective way to strengthen national unity.
“When Malaysians understand the true history of the formation of our country, they will better appreciate the spirit of federalism, respect our diversity, and understand the constitutional rights and responsibilities of every region within the fderation,” he said.
He said PRS would continue to uphold and defend Sarawak’s rights through constitutional means, historical truth and the spirit of MA63 to ensure Malaysia continued to progress as a fair, strong and united federation.
