Anwar to announce interim payment for Sarawak on Malaysia Day

Kota Kinabalu: Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim plans to announce a preliminary payment to Sarawak associated with the Malaysia Agreement 1963 on Malaysia Day, which falls on September 16. Anwar mentioned ongoing talks with Sarawak Chief Minister Tan Sri Abang Johari regarding the issue. Similar steps for Sabah would be explored for Sarawak, despite not being covered under Article 112D of the Federal Constitution.

In a press conference after a Malaysia Agreement 1963 Implementation Action Council meeting, Anwar stated that an interim measure for Sarawak could be revealed by Malaysia Day at Kuching. Previous announcements include a RM1.5 billion special interim payment to Sabah until resolution of the state's 40 percent net revenue claim. Sarawak has presented its perspectives on a formula for special payments to Sabah and Sarawak, aiming to address the nation's financial condition and capabilities, including minimum and maximum limits.

Abang Johari expressed that the Sarawak formula is mutually beneficial, emphasizing that national prosperity directly benefits the federation, and during challenging times, the federation's financial stability must be maintained.