Anwar: MA63 is a national promise, must not be seen as only affecting Sabah and Sarawak

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim emphasized that the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) is a national promise that must be respected and implemented, stating that it is a solemn pledge made by previous leaders of Malaysia. Anwar stated that the agreement is unlikely to be resolved as long as some Peninsula friends believe it only affects Sabah and Sarawak.

During the 2026 Malaysia Day Celebration at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching, Anwar highlighted that nine issues related to MA63 have been resolved under the Madani Government. These include recognizing Sabah and Sarawak's Public Works Department (JKR) and Department of Irrigation and Drainage (JPS) as technical departments, appointing permanent representatives from both states to the Inland Revenue Board (IRB), transferring Bintulu Port to Sarawak, and handing over electricity regulatory powers to Sabah.

Anwar stressed that resolving these matters requires cooperation between state and federal governments, and the prosperity of Sarawak brings prosperity to Malaysia. He viewed Bintulu Port as a vital port for Malaysia and a shared pledge for the nation, representing shared interests and shared wealth.