KUCHING: The Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) is not just a mere formality but the foundational agreement that brought Malaysia into existence.
“Any attempt to undermine or reinterpret the boundaries established by MA63 it not just a political misstep, it is a direct threat to the very fabric of our nation,” said Batu Kitang assemblyman Datuk Lo Khere Chiang.
He said this in response to Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli, who stated that the proposed legislative framework for the carbon, capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS) industry will adhere to the MA63 platform’s ongoing discussions on state boundaries.
“For Rafizi to issue a statement casting doubt on Sarawak’s established boundaries and suggesting ongoing disputes with federal authorities is nothing short of a betrayal of that sacred pact.
“Sarawak’s boundaries, including its continental shelf, have been defined and protected by law long before this recent controversy.
“The Sarawak (Alteration of Boundaries) Order 1954 and subsequent legislation have established these borders. To question these legal frameworks now is not just legally unsound, it is a blatant disregard for the spirit of MA63,” he added.
He said if the federal government cannot honour the terms of MA63, it is not only Sarawak that will suffer but that the whole nation stands to lose.
“The integrity of Malaysia is at stake, and disrespecting MA63 undermines the very principles on which this nation was built,” he added.
Lo stated the state government has been clear on the issue of the carbon storage.
“All carbon storage projects undertaken within the boundaries of the state must be regulated by the state laws.
“The state government states categorically that the boundaries of Sarawak were not a subject matter under discussion through the MA63 platform. The Sarawak boundaries, including the continental shelf, its right therein, cannot be subject to any negotiation, and not open for debate.
“The MA63 agreement is sacrosanct, and Sarawakians must not stand idly while our rights are questioned or disregarded,” he added.
Lo called on Rafizi to heed the warning, and respect MA63 or face the very real possibility of eroding whatever is left of the unity of Malaysia.
The future of our nation depends on honouring the agreements that brought us together. Know this, there is no Malaysia without MA63.
“It is time to reaffirm our commitment to the agreement that Malaysia a reality, and anything less is a betrayal of our nation’s principles and a threat to our shared future,” he added.
Recent reports quoted Rafizi as saying that while the MA63 platform’s discussions on the different interpretation of boundaries (between the federal and state government) is ongoing, the Economy Ministry will keep abreast with its progress to ensure the CCUS legislation reflect the understanding reached.
