KUCHING – The Sarawak Government, under the leadership of Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS), has reiterated its unwavering commitment to uphold and defend the rights of Sarawak as enshrined in the Federal Constitution and the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).
Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg, made the statement during his speech at the 2025 Sarawak Day celebration held at Miri City Stadium on Tuesday. He firmly rejected accusations that Sarawak is being excessive or greedy in asserting its constitutional entitlements.
“I accept that there are certain parties in Sarawak and outside the state who are trying to portray Sarawak as ‘excessive’ and greedy. However, what Sarawak is asking for is something that has been enshrined in the Constitution and the MA63 since Malaysia was established,” said the Premier.
Despite the criticisms, Premier Abang Zohari affirmed the state’s strong cooperative ties with the Federal Government led by Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim. He emphasised that the pursuit of Sarawak’s rights does not conflict with national interests, but rather complements the shared vision of a prosperous Malaysia.
“The increase in Sarawak’s revenue, especially through the State Sales Tax (SST), will not reduce the country’s revenue. The Federal Government still has ample means to boost its income without burdening the people,” he added.
The Sarawak Day 2025 celebration was officiated by Sarawak Governor Tun Pehin Sri Dr. Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, accompanied by his wife, Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi.
Also in attendance were Deputy Prime Minister Dato Sri Fadillah Yusof; Sarawak Deputy Premiers Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, and Datuk Amar Professor Dr. Sim Kui Hian; Speaker of the Sarawak Legislative Assembly Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Asfia Awang Nasar; along with federal and state ministers, deputy ministers, top civil servants, and other dignitaries.
The Premier’s message reinforced Sarawak’s determination to maintain autonomy and economic growth, while supporting a cooperative and equitable federation.
