KUCHING – Sarawak Governor Tun Pehin Sri Dr Haji Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar received Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Haji Salleh Said Keruak, Head of the Sabah Project Review, during a visit to the Governor’s Official Residence in Kuching on 21 August.
The meeting provided an opportunity for the two figures to exchange views and experiences on matters concerning Sabah and Sarawak, particularly the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) and the position and interests of both states within the Federation of Malaysia.
Dr Salleh also expressed his appreciation for Wan Junaidi’s previous work as Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department overseeing Parliament and Law. He highlighted the Governor’s involvement in efforts connected with MA63, including the planning, drafting and tabling of constitutional amendments in Parliament.
The amendments relating to MA63 were approved in 2021 and have been regarded as an important development in addressing the constitutional position of Sabah and Sarawak within Malaysia.
According to Dr Salleh, the constitutional changes represented a significant achievement in strengthening the position and interests of the two states in keeping with the principles associated with the formation of the federation.
His remarks also recognised the work undertaken to ensure that matters concerning MA63 were given consideration within the Federal Constitution.
MA63, signed in 1963, forms part of the historical and constitutional framework surrounding the formation of Malaysia. Issues relating to the agreement have continued to feature in discussions involving the rights, responsibilities and interests of Sabah and Sarawak in the federation.
The 2021 constitutional amendments were part of wider efforts to address the status of Sabah and Sarawak under the Federal Constitution. The changes followed discussions and legislative processes involving the federal government and representatives from the two Borneo states.
During the meeting in Kuching, Wan Junaidi expressed his appreciation for Dr Salleh’s visit and for the exchange of views and experiences between them.
The discussion also underscored the continuing importance of understanding the historical background and constitutional position of Sabah and Sarawak, as well as the aspirations of both states within Malaysia.
The meeting comes amid continued attention to MA63 and matters concerning the relationship between the federal administration and the governments and people of Sabah and Sarawak.
Wan Junaidi also conveyed his wishes for Dr Salleh’s continued good health and success in carrying out his responsibilities.
The visit was held at the Sarawak Governor’s Official Residence in Kuching, with the discussion focused on matters relating to MA63 and the interests of Sabah and Sarawak in the Malaysian federation.
