Sabah gets RM1.5b MA63 boost, Anwar hints Sarawak could be next by Sept 16

KOTA KINABALU, Sept 11 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced an interim allocation of RM1.5 billion for Sabah, effective immediately, during a press conference following the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) Implementation Action Council meeting. Anwar stated that this payment is an interim measure pending further negotiations, taking into account the country's financial position, as outlined in the original agreement.

He clarified that if the increase is deemed insufficient, it may be contested. Anwar assured that further deliberations will take place in Parliament in October, and the disbursement of the RM1.5 billion is anticipated sometime between the end of October and early November. Hajiji Noor, Sabah Chief Minister, had previously requested the settlement of 40 per cent payment to Sabah, hoping for an expedited resolution.

Meanwhile, Anwar hinted that Sarawak might receive a similar interim measure by September 16, Malaysia Day in Kuching, after discussions with the Sarawak Premier. He emphasized the need to consider Sarawak's financial position and capacity, as well as a minimum and maximum threshold for the proposed formula. Sarawak Premier Abang Johari Tun Openg expressed his gratitude for the ongoing dialogue and the decisions reached so far.