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

Former Sabah Chief Minister Salleh Said Keruak 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 ex-chief minister argued that these demands should be understood in the context of the foundational history of the Malaysian Union.

He emphasized that Sabah and Sarawak's concerns encompass issues such as constitutional rights, representation, resource sharing, and political autonomy. Not all regional movements seek independence; many instead advocate for stronger representation, fiscal autonomy, or greater control over local resources. Salleh 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 unique political, economic, and historical circumstances.

He noted that such movements can be driven by distinct cultural identities, economic concerns, political disenchantment, historical conflicts, or colonial legacies. While some movements may seek full independence, others focus on broadening the scope of their home governments, increasing control over resources, or enhancing regional representation within the national structure.

A strong nation is one that can balance national unity with the rights and aspirations of its regions, Salleh said. Early this month, Sabah and Sarawak's Minister of Home Affairs, Mustapha Sakmud, stated that 16 out of the 29 primary issues under MA63 have been fully resolved, while three have been partially resolved and 10 remain under discussion.

Among the unresolved issues are the review of special grants under Article 112D of the Constitution, efforts to increase Sabah and Sarawak's representation in Parliament, and other matters involving constitutional rights and the autonomy of both states. Mustapha said the Home Affairs Departments of Sabah and Sarawak have initiated formal discussions with the Election Commission on mechanisms to increase the two states' representation in Parliament.

MA63 is the foundational document for Malaysia's formation, guaranteeing the status, rights, and interests of Sabah and Sarawak as equal partners in the Union.