By Datuk James Ligunjang J.P
Former Sabah Assemblyman
The Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) was established with the vision of creating a federation based on mutual respect and cooperation between the federal government and the states, especially Sabah and Sarawak.
This agreement was intended to safeguard the autonomy and rights of Sabah, ensuring that it maintains its distinct identity and has a say in its own governance.
However, the recent trend of Sabah-based parties aligning with national coalitions such as BN, PH, or PN raises concerns about the erosion of these foundational principles.
Such alliances tend to diminish Sabah’s voice in demanding its rights under MA63 and open the door for increased federal interference in the state’s political process and governance.
This challenges the very spirit of the Malaysia Agreement, which emphasizes respect, cooperation, and the safeguarding of Sabah’s unique status.
State-Federal relations, under the framework of MA63, were meant to be based on partnership and mutual respect, allowing Sabah to exercise its rights and maintain its autonomy.
When Sabah parties join national coalitions, it often results in their interests being subordinate to broader national agendas, thereby undermining the guarantees of autonomy and protection enshrined in MA63.
This dynamic not only diminishes Sabah’s ability to advocate for its own interests but also allows federal parties to interfere more directly in state affairs, contrary to the spirit of the original agreement.
Maintaining Sabah’s autonomy is crucial for ensuring that the principles of federalism are respected and that Sabah’s rights are protected as envisioned in 1963.
To uphold the integrity of Malaysia’s federal structure, it is vital that Sabah’s political landscape reflect an understanding of and commitment to the principles of mutual respect and cooperation articulated in MA63.
Only then can Sabah truly exercise its rights and enjoy the autonomy envisaged at Malaysia’s formation in 1963.
*Kotobian Tadau Tagazo do Kaamatan*
*Rumah kita,kita jaga*
Editor: The views expressed are those of the writer and not necessarily reflect those of talantang.com
