KUCHING: Several associations in Sarawak have called for an increase in parliamentary seats for Sabah and Sarawak to reflect their status as founding territories of Malaysia.
The associations argue that Sabah and Sarawak should collectively hold at least one-third of the total parliamentary seats, ensuring the protection of the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).
Referencing the Cobbold Commission report, they stressed the term ‘safeguard’ as a fundamental element of this protection.
In a joint statement, the Intellectual Natives Association of Sarawak (Perantis), Salako and Rara Society of Sarawak (Perasa), and Raban Semadak Borneo Brotherhood reiterated that Sarawak is now officially recognised as a partner of Peninsular Malaysia, following the enforcement of amendments to Clause (2) of Article 1 and Clause (2) of Article 160 of the Federal Constitution.
“With the enforcement of the bill, it provides benefits that clarify the position of Sabah and Sarawak within the federation in line with the MA63.
“Additionally, it recognises the agreement within the Federal Constitution, where previously there was no reference.
“Therefore, to acknowledge Sarawak and Sabah as regions, an increase of at least 29 parliamentary seats for these territories should be granted,” they said.
It also stressed a fair allocation that respects Sarawak’s status as a partner in the formation of Malaysia.
They added that the recognition of Borneo states as equal partners with Peninsular Malaysia must be reflected in spending provisions and parliamentary seat distribution.
Further, the associations reminded the federal government that Sarawak’s borders, including its continental shelf, are constitutionally under state jurisdiction and should therefore not be subject to discussion.
They highlighted that Article 1(3) of the Federal Constitution protects Sarawak’s borders as established at the formation of Malaysia.
“Item 2 of the State List (List II) under the Ninth Schedule of the Federal Constitution of Malaysia designates ‘Land’ as a matter under state jurisdiction.
“Meanwhile, Item 2(c) of the State List (List II) in the Ninth Schedule of the Federal Constitution grants state governments the authority to issue permits for exploration and mining activities.
“Conversely, Item 8(c) of the Federal List (List I) subjects the federal government’s powers over mineral development, oil, and oil wells to state authority,” they said.
On the other hand, the associations expressed gratitude toward the ‘Malaysia Madani’ government under Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim for its commitment to MA63.
They noted that in his Budget 2025 debate summary, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof announced that 11 of 29 MA63 claims have been resolved, including seven under the current Madani government.
