Sabah, Sarawak bimbang diabaikan selepas orang Melayu bersatu, kata penganalisis

Sabah and Sarawak remain concerned despite Malay unity, says analyst. (Picture Magnific)

Penthouse Editor James Chin from the University of Tasmania stated that a stronger Malay political bloc may be able to reward Sabah and Sarawak with concessions, particularly those promised under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63). However, he added that they do not want Malay political unity as it could lead to domination over Sabah and Sarawak if Malays become too powerful in the Peninsula.

Historically, when Malays unite under a ruling party, they tend to overlook what Sabah and Sarawak desire. According to Awang Azman Awang Pawi from the University of Malaya, the primary concern of Sabah and Sarawak is political stability in the Peninsula, which directly affects the stability of the federal government. They also worry about Putrajaya's ability to honor MA63, strengthen state autonomy, accelerate development, and fulfill committed promises.

The most worrying aspect, they say, is if disunity leads to government instability, frequent shifts in fundamentals, and failure to implement decisions concerning the interests of Sabah and Sarawak.

Both analysts discussed Umno Deputy President Khaled Nordin's statement that disunity may reduce confidence among Sabah and Sarawak leaders in the ability of leaders from the Malaysian Borneo to manage the national government. Nordin argued that disunity could make Sabah and Sarawak question whether Malays from the Peninsula should continue to receive more privileges in governing the country.

Azman stressed that Sabah and Sarawak's support becomes crucial in determining which party can form the federal government during political turmoil. However, he noted that stronger bargaining power would only make sense if accompanied by political stability. Otherwise, prolonged instability could undermine development, investment, and policy implementation in both states.