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Kuching: Negotiations to Restore One-Third Parliamentary Seats for Sarawak and Sabah a Mere Formality
KUCHING: The ongoing negotiations to restore one-third of the Parliamentary seats to Sarawak and Sabah are not a matter of debate but a mere formality, according to Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) vice-president Dato Ibrahim Baki.
Ibrahim stressed that the claim made by the two states is already safeguarded by the Malaysian Constitution through the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) and the Inter-Government Committee (IGC) Report 1962.
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He reminded that before Malaysia’s formation, Tunku Abdul Rahman, Malaysia’s first Prime Minister, had promised that Sarawak and Sabah would have one-third representation in Parliament. This was subsequently implemented as part of the agreement, ensuring that laws could not be passed without the consent of Sarawak and Sabah.
“With Singapore’s departure from the Federation, this safeguard must remain intact. Therefore, the issue of negotiation is unnecessary. What was enshrined in MA63 and the IGC Report must be honoured. It is a constitutional right, not a negotiable privilege,” Dato Ibrahim emphasized.
He also clarified that the ongoing discussions regarding these seats are procedural and must eventually lead to the implementation of this constitutional safeguard for the two regions.
The deputy minister of Utility (Sarawak Energy & PETROS) and Satok assemblyman also outlined several important upcoming projects for the Satok constituency. Among them are the extension of the waterfront from Bintangor to Kampung Kudei Lama and the approval of a retaining wall project in Kampung Kudei Baru to address the growing issue of crocodile encroachment in the area.
“More than RM1 million has been allocated for the construction of the retaining wall to safeguard the residents. Furthermore, a new surau worth RM1.7 million is also planned for Kampung Kudei Baru Ulu,” he added. Other upgrades include the expansion of water pipes, road improvements, and the construction of an arch at the entrance of the village.
Ibrahim further reiterated that the restoration of Sarawak’s rights remains a cornerstone of PBB’s mission, a struggle he vowed to continue with greater dedication in his new role within the party.
The event was attended by several key figures, including Kuching North City Hall (DBKU) Mayor Dato Hilmy Othman and political secretaries from the Sarawak Premier’s office and the Deputy Prime Minister’s office. — UKAS EDITION