KUCHING: The demand for one-third of parliamentary seats stems from a long-standing sense of underrepresentation and disparity in development compared to the peninsula states.
Despite contributing significantly to federal revenue, locals argue that the economic voices of the Borneo states have been stifled, and their rights, as enshrined in the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), remain unfulfilled.
While the call for an increased share of parliamentary seats is seen as a step toward rectifying these imbalances, there are concerns that such a shift could disrupt the political status quo in the peninsula.
However, proponents argue that a fairer allocation of seats is essential to restoring Sabah and Sarawak’s rightful place in Malaysia’s governance structure, ensuring that both states can fully benefit from the nation’s development.
The following perspectives reflect the views of individuals on this issue, offering insight into how this demand for more equitable representation could shape the future of the Borneo states.
Mohd Firdaus Md Daud, civil servant, 35
“This move will amplify the economic voice of Sabah and Sarawak, particularly through a fair allocation in parliament, ensuring that both states can experience more progressive development. While the Borneo states are demanding 1/3 of the parliamentary seats, this will not destabilise the political landscape of the peninsula. Instead, it will restore the rightful privileges of Sabah and Sarawak as stipulated in the MA63.”
Salbiah Loncheng, civil servant, 50
“It’s unjust. We’re already in 2024, and things shouldn’t stay like this forever. It’s not just the peninsula that should be developing — Sarawak is just as vast. How many states are there in the peninsula, yet the revenue from our state is sent to the federal government, and what is returned to us isn’t enough. We also don’t have a fair share of ministers representing us at the federal level. People from the peninsula may have opinions about us, but in reality, they’ve never experienced life here. If they truly understood our situation, they would never dare to claim that we are falling behind or lacking progress.”
Chin Moi Fah, civil servant, 47
“To secure one-third of parliamentary seats, the Sarawak state government can strengthen political alliances with federal parties to advocate for increased representation, engage in negotiations under the MA63 to seek greater autonomy and legislative power, and mobilise public support through awareness campaigns that highlight the benefits of enhanced representation. These combined efforts can significantly bolster Sarawak’s political influence in national governance.”
Syawalnurizam Awang Zaini, civil servant, 30
“Sarawak’s demand to obtain 1/3 of the parliamentary seats refers to the call for a fairer representation in the federal government. The proposal is based on addressing long-standing issues of underrepresentation and ensuring that Sarawak, alongside Sabah, receives a more equitable share of seats in parliament, reflecting their significant contribution to Malaysia and their rightful place as outlined in the MA63. This demand seeks to give the Borneo states a stronger political voice to influence national policies and development.”
Anas Firas Saudi, civil servant, 27
“From my perspective, this demand has the potential to be achieved, considering the strong relationship between the federal government and the state government led by our Premier. Additionally, the political stability in Sabah and Sarawak is also an important factor to consider, as the demand is based on an agreement already enshrined in the MA63.”
