KOTA KINABALU: The Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) was meant to be a solemn pact that outlined the rights and privileges accorded to Sabah and Sarawak upon their incorporation into the federation of Malaysia.
Ex Petagas assemblyman Datuk James Ligunjang said it was supposed to be a guarantee of continued self-governance and the preservation of the unique identities and demographics of these two East Malaysian states.
However, the reality has been far from the promises enshrined in MA63.
“Instead of upholding the autonomy and interests of Sabah and Sarawak, Malayan leaders have consistently worked to undermine the spirit and letter of the agreement,” the Justice of Peace said in a statement today.
He pointed out that efforts had been made to reduce the power of these states to govern themselves within the framework of MA63, as was originally envisioned.
“Rather than preserving the integrity and harmony of MA63, the federal government has perpetuated the colonial-era intention of exploiting the wealth and resources of Sabah and Sarawak for the benefit of Peninsular Malaysi,” Ligunjang added.
He claimed that his had resulted in these two states becoming among the poorest in the region, despite their immense natural riches.
Furthermore, the uncontrolled influx of illegal immigrants into Sabah has disrupted the delicate demographic balance, threatening the indigenous populations and their way of life.
“This too is a clear violation of the spirit of MA63, which was meant to safeguard the unique identities of the East Malaysian states,” the former lawmaker added.
Ligunjang added that in essence, the promises of development, security, and self-governance that were the hallmarks of MA63 had been systematically undermined and betrayed by the Malayan political establishment.
“The hopes and aspirations of the people of Sabah have been cruelly dashed, replaced by a reality of diminished autonomy, economic exploitation, and demographic upheaval.”
“The 40% revenue entitlement of Sabah that was meant to drive the development in Sabah has never been fulfilled and realised from the start,” he said.
Ligunjang said it was high time for the federal government to honor the spirit of MA63 and restore the rightful place of Sabah and Sarawak within the Malaysian federation.
