SARAWAK remains resolute in safeguarding its sovereignty and autonomy, prioritizing the protection of its people’s rights, welfare, and security through stringent monitoring and enforcement of its laws.
Minister of Tourism, Creative Arts, and Performing Arts Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah stressed the critical need for continuous scrutiny of individuals or entities entering Sarawak for employment or economic activities.
“This is to ensure Sarawak’s security and sovereignty. All parties must comply with the Sarawak Constitution and laws enacted by the State Legislative Assembly to protect the rights and interests of our people,” he said during his ministerial winding-up speech today.
Abdul Karim said Sarawak’s laws are designed to maintain harmony, safeguard natural resources, and ensure that economic and social activities align with the state’s aspirations.
“All parties entering Sarawak must understand and respect these regulations, which reflect the autonomy granted to the state,” he added.
He reiterated that Sarawak’s immigration autonomy, firmly enshrined in the Federal Constitution under Article 161E(4) and the Immigration Act 1959/63, empowers the state government to regulate and control entry into Sarawak.
“This autonomy ensures the safety, welfare, and interests of our people and underscores Sarawak’s unique position within the Federation of Malaysia. It is a non-negotiable right, further strengthened by the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63),” he added.
He noted that the Inter-Governmental Committee (IGC) Report, which guided the drafting of MA63, explicitly highlights the importance of Sarawak controlling immigration to safeguard its cultural, social, and economic interests.
In addition to immigration, Sarawak holds exclusive authority over labour matters involving non-resident workers.
“The Sarawak Labour Ordinance (Chapter 76) requires employers to obtain state government approval before hiring non-resident workers. Non-compliance carries severe penalties, including fines and imprisonment.
“This reflects the Sarawak government’s firm commitment to upholding the rule of law and protecting workers’ welfare,” Abdul Karim said, adding that autonomy over immigration and labour matters is fundamental to Sarawak’s governance and identity.
“These rights, protected by the Federal Constitution, MA63, and the IGC Report, are vital for Sarawak to safeguard its interests and maintain its autonomy within Malaysia,” he said.
Abdul Karim issued a stern warning to companies and workers violating Sarawak’s laws, stating that non-compliance would lead to serious consequences, including the rejection or cancellation of work permits.
“Sarawak has absolute authority to deny entry or operation to any individual, entity, or company that fails to comply with the laws passed by the state government. Compliance is non-negotiable, as no one is above the law,” he asserted.
He concluded by reaffirming Sarawak’s unwavering commitment to protecting its autonomy and ensuring its laws serve the best interests of its people and the state’s sustainable development.
