THE existing cooperation between Sarawak and Putrajaya is absolutely stunning, to say the least – and it just couldn’t get any better. How else can one describe the exceptional rapport between the federal and state governments which is in ‘sync’ with each other?
This never-before-seen close and harmonious relationship between Malaya and Sarawak is undoubtedly the result of the close working relationship between the oriented and farsighted Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg and the accommodating Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. One could argue that state-federal ties were close too during the time of ‘BossKu’ Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak, the sixth prime minister, and the late Tun Pehin Sri Taib Mahmud, Sarawak’s fourth chief minister. Yes and no! True, ties were cordial then but that didn’t resolve several long-standing issues like the return of many rights under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) and the concession of autonomy in several fields.
But the situation is visibly very much different now. Abang Johari has managed to extract several concessions from Putrajaya because of his close ties with the federal government under Anwar.
For example, in early March, a memorandum of understanding was signed for the federal government to hand over Bintulu Port to Sarawak within this year. Under MA63, the agreement in forming Malaysia, all ports in Sarawak are to come under the control of the state government.
Bintulu Port, however, was an exception. The port was declared a federal port through an Act passed in Parliament in 1978. This handover is a significant step in honouring the MA63 and restoring Sarawak’s autonomy over its own ports.
Another major concession is the incorporation of Sarawak’s carbon trading law into federal law, making it a national policy. This integration means our carbon trading regime will be credible and recognised by the international community.
“This means that the carbon trading regime must be credible and recognised by the international community. Our law is based on what is recommended by the World Bank, and we are working closely with them,” Abang Johari said.
In September last year, Putrajaya agreed to give Approved Permits (APs) to Sarawak to import 1,000 units of electric vehicles and hydrogen-powered vehicles, along with tax exemptions for these imports. This move will promote sustainable transportation and reducing carbon emissions in the state.
Putrajaya has also granted Sarawak the discretion to implement Public Works Department projects costing less than RM50 million – a decision that helps streamline bureaucratic processes which often delay the implementation of critical infrastructure projects, ensuring timely development and progress.
And in January last year, Anwar announced an additional RM1 billion to upgrade Sarawak (and Sabah’s) border infrastructure and increase the capability of the Customs, Immigration, Quarantine, and Security (CIQS) Complex at the Sarawak and Sabah borders. Anwar realised the importance of improving security and increasing the CIQS’s capability, and basic infrastructure such as roads.
The state government’s latest decision to allocate RM200 million to repair rundown schools and medical clinics, with the promise of reimbursement from the federal government, highlights the proactive approach taken by the state to address pressing needs. Anwar has agreed to expedite this process, reducing bureaucracy and ensuring that the people of Sarawak benefit promptly from these improvements.
Abang Johari had announced this allocation during Anwar’s visit to Sarawak during the fasting month in March, fulfilling a promise to expedite rural development, especially in the health and education sectors. The collaboration between the state and federal governments to speed up project implementation exemplifies the trust and cooperative spirit between the two administrations.
Moreover, Abang Johari has expressed gratitude to Putrajaya for delegating authority over education development in Sarawak to the State Education director. This delegation allows for more efficient decisionmaking and tailored solutions to meet the state’s educational needs.
The close working relationship has also enabled ongoing negotiations for more concessions under MA63, including the reclaiming of stamp duty proceeds. The state government argues that revenue from stamp duty, collected through land transactions, should be returned to Sarawak as land is the property of the state. Articles 112C and 112D of the Federal Constitution provide the basis for Putrajaya to give special financial grants to Sarawak and Sabah, and the state government views stamp duty as a rightful revenue source.
The administration of land matters in Sarawak is governed by its own land code, reinforcing the argument that the proceeds from stamp duty should be retained by the state. This issue was raised with the federal government when Pakatan Harapan was in power after the 2018 general election, based on the provisions of MA63 that stipulate revenue collected in Sarawak and Sabah should be retained by these states.
This unprecedented cooperation between Sarawak and Putrajaya reflects the effective leadership and mutual respect between Abang Johari and Anwar. Their ability to work together harmoniously has led to tangible benefits for the people of Sarawak, from infrastructure development to advancements in the education and medical sectors.
The harmonious statefederal relationship is fostering an environment conducive to sustainable development, economic growth and improved quality of life for Sarawakians. The Premier’s strategic vision and the Prime Minister’s accommodating approach have indeed brought about a new era of cooperation that bodes well for the future of Sarawak within the Malaysian federation.
As more concessions and autonomy are negotiated under MA63, the people of Sarawak can look forward to a future where their rights and needs are more adequately addressed. This strengthened collaboration between Sarawak and Putrajaya is not just about reclaiming rights; it is about building a foundation for a more prosperous and equitable future for all Sarawakians.
The views expressed here are those of the columnist and do not necessarily represent the views of the Sarawak Tribune.
