KUCHING: The late Tun Jugah, a highly esteemed leader and signatory of the MA63, once conveyed a profound message: “Anang Malaysia baka tebu, manis ba pun tabar ba ujung”, symbolising the caution against Malaysia resembling sugarcane – initially sweet but lacking flavour at the end.
This sentiment was expressed in a press release issued by a collective of groups on Sept 13, highlighting the importance of upholding the rights and promises enshrined in the MA63 constitution.
“Reflecting on the date of Sept 16, 1963, we witnessed the formation of the Federation of Malaysia when the Federation of Malaya united with the territories of North Borneo (Sabah), Sarawak, and Singapore.
“Malaysia was founded on constitutional principles aimed at ensuring a fair and equitable distribution of power and wealth, liberating the people from mental and spiritual colonisation to uplift the dignity of Malaysians.
“However, what troubles us is the neglect and deviation from the spirit of Malaysia’s birth, which pledged equality and justice. Many in Sarawak still find themselves marginalised from the nation’s development,” the release stated.
The groups emphasised that despite Sarawak’s more than half a century as part of Malaysia since 1963, it still lacks access to essential facilities and infrastructure.
Moreover, instead of celebrating 60 years of unity as a multi-ethnic and multi-religious nation, Malaysia is experiencing a rise in racial provocations and religious tensions.
The groups asserted that political leaders should play a crucial role in addressing this situation. Regrettably, some of these leaders are exacerbating the situation by exploiting religious and sensitive matters for personal gain.
“What is unfortunate is that the situation is challenging to rectify and seems to be worsening. The question arises: Have Sabah and Sarawak achieved the same level of progress as Peninsular Malaysia 60 years after the formation of Malaysia, especially in terms of infrastructure, economy, education, and more?” it added.
In 2023, not 1975 or 1976, Sarawak urgently needs a substantial allocation of resources to realise its aspirations. Utilising additional revenues from oil and gas can expedite industrial development and economic growth within the state.
Prioritising income and wealth distribution is imperative, as progress in reducing poverty will remain hindered unless simultaneous improvements in income and wealth distribution are implemented. This is essential to effectively narrow the gap between Sabah, Sarawak, and Peninsular Malaysia.
“Let’s reaffirm the agreement forged six decades ago. Independence was envisioned to uphold the principles of freedom, equal rights, and justice. This shared consensus was solidified on Sept 16, 1963.
“Malaysia Day on Sept 16 is celebrated to strengthen unity and understanding among communities, as well as to acknowledge achievements in various fields since the formation of Malaysia. Malaysia would not exist without Sabah and Sarawak.
“Therefore, we insist on reviving the spirit of independence, fully realising the doctrine of Malaysia’s formation. Ensuring prosperity, human rights, and the sanctity of the constitution should be our priority,” the release stated.
The groups expressed high hopes for a fair, just, and united Malaysia. “It is our responsibility to ensure that the constitution’s sanctity is upheld and the rule of law is firmly established.”
The 20-Point Memorandum is a historical document submitted by North Borneo to the Inter-Governmental Committee, established in August 1962. This committee was formed following the recommendations of the Cobbold Commission and aimed to safeguard the rights and interests of the people of Sabah and Sarawak upon joining Malaysia.
This historical event provides an opportunity to reflect on and remember the events that shaped Malaysia’s formation, acknowledging the struggles and sacrifices of various ethnic groups, ideologies, and political movements that contributed to realising the formation of Malaysia.
