Key terms under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), such as resource autonomy, fair financial allocations, and greater state control, remain unresolved, though significant progress has been made since the MADANI government took power in December 2022.
The Sabah Pakatan Harapan (PH) chairman, Datuk Ewon Benedick, who is also a member of the Malaysia Agreement 1963 Implementation Action Council (MTPMA63), said that 11 out of 21 MA63-related demands have been implemented, marking a crucial step forward, but major constitutional issues remain under discussion.
“Last year, during the Malaysia Agreement 1963 Implementation Action Council (MTPMA63) meeting chaired by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in Kota Kinabalu, 11 out of 21 MA63-related demands were fully implemented,” Ewon said at PH Sabah’s Chinese New Year and Christmas Open House in Keningau on Saturday.
Benedick, who also serves as the federal Minister of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives, explained that four of these demands were met under the previous administration, while seven were delivered by the current MADANI government.
“More MA63 demands have been agreed upon, implemented, and devolved to the Sabah and Sarawak governments under the MADANI administration,” he said.
However, unresolved demands—including revenue-sharing and state control over resources—continue to be priorities, he said.
“These are constitutional rights that were agreed upon during the formation of Malaysia. Sabahans are still waiting for their full realisation,” he said.
Benedick stressed that ongoing discussions will proceed through platforms like MTPMA63, the Technical Committee, and other relevant bodies, where Sabah PH will remain actively involved.
“Sabah PH will continue to actively participate in these discussions. Through my role in the cabinet and the MA63 Implementation Action Council, we are committed to ensuring these matters are resolved for the benefit of Sabahans,” he said.
Beyond addressing MA63, Benedick also highlighted PH Sabah’s efforts to foster unity among Sabah’s diverse communities through inclusive celebrations.
“I strongly believe celebrations like this are Sabah Pakatan Harapan’s contribution to fostering unity among our diverse communities,” he said.
“We will continue similar celebrations for other ethnic and religious festivities, such as Hari Raya Aidilfitri and Pesta Kaamatan.” – January 25, 2025.
