By Datuk James Ligunjang J.P
Former assemblyman for Petagas.
In the composition of the Technical Committee, it is imperative to ensure equitable and fair representation across all parties involved.
A key to achieving such representation is to include qualified members from the State Governments of Sabah and Sarawak, as nominated and ratified by their respective State Legislative Assemblies.
The significance of this recommendation lies in its potential to enhance the transmission of each State Government’s stance during Technical Committee deliberations. By proposing and endorsing qualified representatives, Sabah and Sarawak can ensure their specific interests and viewpoints are accurately conveyed.
Such robust representation is crucial, especially for decisions that have far-reaching implications on the development and autonomy of Sabah and Sarawak.
The mechanisms for choosing these representatives should be transparent and democratic, ensuring that the appointees truly reflect the aspirations and needs of Sabah and Sarawak in accordance with the stipulations provided in the Federal Constitution and MA63.
The main committee on the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) is presided over by the Prime Minister and includes representation from the Chief Minister of Sabah as well as the Premier of Sarawak.
The Technical Committee serves as an operational group that formulates detailed discussions and recommendations, which are then presented to the main committee for further consideration.
Considering the unique and distinct revenue entitlement positions of Sabah and Sarawak, it may be beneficial to establish separate technical committees for each.
The appointment of Federal Ministers in the Technical Committee will serve to strengthen the representations of Sabah and Sarawak in the Committee.
The format and composition of the Technical Committee should be similar to the Inter-Governmental Committee established in 1962. – Talantang