Jangan label tuntutan MA63 Sabah, Sarawak sebagai gerakan pemisah, kata Salleh

Former Sabah Chief Minister Salleh Said Keruak has stated that demands from Sabah and Sarawak for the implementation of the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) should not be automatically labeled as a secessionist movement. The former chief minister, who is also the treasurer of Umno Sabah, emphasized that understanding the demands within the context of the basic history of Malaysia's formation is crucial.

Sabah and Sarawak's concerns encompass issues such as constitutional rights, regional representation, resource sharing, and political autonomy. Not all regional movements seek independence; many instead seek stronger representation, fiscal autonomy, or greater control over local resources, Salleh noted in a Facebook post discussing the resurgence of regionalism in global politics.

He cited examples from around the world, including Quebec and Alberta in Canada, Catalonia in Spain, Scotland in the United Kingdom, and Greenland, to illustrate how regional movements can emerge from different political, economic, and historical circumstances.

Salleh explained that such movements can be driven by unique cultural identities, economic grievances, political grievances, historical conflicts, or colonial legacies. While some movements demand independence, others focus on broadening the government's purview, enhancing control over resources, or ensuring stronger representation within the national structure.

A strong nation is one that balances national unity with the rights and aspirations of its regions, he added. As of early this month, Sabah and Sarawak's 16 out of 29 main demands under MA63 have been fully addressed, three partially addressed, and 10 still under negotiation. Among the outstanding issues are a fresh review of special grants under Article 112D of the Constitution, efforts to increase Sabah and Sarawak's representation in Parliament, and other matters concerning constitutional rights and the two states' autonomy.

The Sabah and Sarawak Welfare and Development Ministry has initiated formal discussions with the Election Commission regarding mechanisms to enhance the two states' representation in Parliament. MA63 is the foundational document of Malaysia's formation, ensuring the rights, interests, and status of Sabah and Sarawak as partners in building the Federation.