KUCHING – The Sarawak Governor, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, accompanied by his wife Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi, hosted a breakfast gathering with Sarawak Senators at their official residence in Petra Jaya on Tuesday morning.
The meeting brought together several serving and former members of the Dewan Negara, including Dato Ahmad Ibrahim, Rita Sarimah, Dr Susan Anding, Michael Lihan, Pele Peter Tinggom, Robert Lau Hui Yew, and former Senator Datuk Paul Igai.
The informal session provided a platform to reflect on the Senate’s responsibilities within Malaysia’s parliamentary democracy.
During his remarks, Tun Pehin Sri Wan Junaidi emphasised that Senators must fully grasp the historical foundation, powers, and duties of the Dewan Negara.
He described the Senate as a crucial institution that acts as a check and balance to the Dewan Rakyat, particularly in shaping national policies and legislation.
This role, he noted, is consistent with Article 43(3) of the Federal Constitution, which outlines the framework of parliamentary governance.
He further highlighted the importance of Members of Parliament and Senators possessing a deep understanding of their constitutional mandate.
Such knowledge, he said, is essential to safeguard the credibility and integrity of Malaysia’s legislative system.
The Governor underscored that the Senate’s review of bills passed by the Dewan Rakyat is vital to ensure alignment with the Federal Constitution and to prevent inconsistencies.
The Governor also linked the discussion to broader constitutional issues, stressing that the rights of Sarawak and Sabah under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) must be protected.
He explained that Sarawak’s representation in the Dewan Negara is significant in ensuring the state’s interests are consistently considered within the federal framework.
This comes as negotiations on several MA63-related claims remain ongoing between Sarawak and the federal government, reflecting the continued importance of the agreement in defining East Malaysia’s position within the federation.
Observers note that the Dewan Negara plays a quieter but essential role in Malaysia’s bicameral system. While the Dewan Rakyat is often seen as the centre of political debate, the Senate provides expertise and oversight, helping to refine legislation before it becomes law.
Calls have also been made in recent years to strengthen Sarawak and Sabah’s representation in the Senate, with some proposals suggesting additional seats to enhance East Malaysia’s influence in constitutional matters.
At the conclusion of the breakfast, Tun Pehin Sri Wan Junaidi and Toh Puan Fauziah expressed gratitude to the Senators for their dedication to parliamentary work.
They commended the commitment shown in reinforcing the institution of Parliament and ensuring that the welfare of the people remains at the forefront of national priorities.
The gathering, though informal, underscored Sarawak’s determination to uphold constitutional principles, defend state rights under MA63, and strengthen the role of the Dewan Negara as a guardian of Malaysia’s democratic process.
