Agenda nasional bersama kunci penuhi keperluan negeri, kata Hamzah

Presiden Parti Wawasan Negara, Hamzah Zainudin, stressed the importance of considering each state's specific needs and resources while prioritizing national interests. He emphasized that regional leaders should not perceive Sarawak, Sabah, and Peninsular Malaysia as competing blocks or limiting issues to political demands. Instead, the federal government should establish shared priorities in economy, education, and social advancement before determining suitable support for each region.

To be an effective leader, one must view issues from a holistic perspective, not just a singular topic. Each state has its own agenda, and all desire their respective regions to prosper. However, some states possess greater resources than others. The goal is to find ways to mutually assist and establish a balance so that Malaysia progresses as a unified nation, not as separate entities.

He reiterated that if each state holds differing opinions, Malaysia cannot be built as a nation, pointing to the need for a common economic, educational, and social agenda. He pointed to the economic, educational, and social foundations as the basis for discussion. While suggesting that a shared approach does not mean neglecting regional interests or importance, he emphasized that both parties should sit together, investigate the issue, and reach a resolution, which may also include providing space for states to determine their own national foundations.

He stated that this is not a matter of claims, but rather about sitting together, investigating the issue, and resolving it. If we can compromise on power and give space to each other to investigate the national foundation, there is no harm in looking at the national foundation at the state level. His remarks followed a prolonged disagreement between Petronas and Sarawak over profit-sharing and commercial matters versus issues of federal and state legislative authority.

Sarawak had demanded greater involvement in the oil and gas sector through Sarawak Petroleum Bhd (Petros), including in gas distribution and aggregation, while stressing that both companies should continue working together. Petronas filed an appeal in the Federal Court on January 12, claiming the request was not to challenge Sarawak's development aspirations or hinder Petros' role in the national energy sector.

The dispute affected Sarawak's development aspirations and the financial and investment certainty of the federal government, as Petronas has been a primary contributor to the central government for a long time. Hamzah previously stated that Sarawak's interests should be handled fairly without weakening Petronas, while identifying the national oil company as a golden egg that needs to be preserved for the future of all Malaysians.