KOTA KINABALU: Malaysians ought to comprehend the wonderful records, social composition and political realities of Sabah and Sarawak, said former Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Dr Salleh Said Keruak.
He said this is important because Sabah and Sarawak have very different societies, made up of various ethnic groups, religions, and cultures.
“Our political traditions have consequently been formed by inclusiveness, mutual admire and lodging amongst our specific communities,” he stated in his Facebook post.
Salleh stated that here is likewise a crucial historic context.
“Sabah and Sarawak got here collectively with Malaya and Singapore to form Malaysia in 1963, based on agreements, safeguards and a spirit of partnership embodied within the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63),” he stated.
Salleh said this history stays fundamental to how Sabahans and Sarawakians apprehend our vicinity within the Federation.
He stated it is similarly critical that our fellow Malaysians in Peninsular Malaysia apprehend and admire this history and the spirit of partnership upon which Malaysia was formed.
Salleh was commenting on the statement issued by Dr Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki on behalf of the UMNO Supreme Council on 28 August 2026.
He said the emotions expressed can be understandable inside the political and demographic context of Peninsular Malaysia, especially with regard to the aspiration for more Malay and Muslim harmony.
“However, when we talk about political balance at the national level, we should also realise the wonderful records, social composition and political realities of Sabah and Sarawak,” he added.
He stated the aspiration for more Malay and Muslim solidarity should be respected within its appropriate context.
“At the same time, it has to no longer emerge as the only framework via which Malaysia’s national political balance is defined.
“Malaysia’s long-time period stability needs to be inclusive. It has to recognise our range, uphold the spirit of federalism, and admire the distinct records, role and aspirations of Sabah and Sarawak.
“As we commemorate 31 August and Malaysia Day on sixteen September, we need to replicate now not only what we celebrate but also the historic foundations that brought us collectively as a state,” he said.
As such, Salleh stressed that national leaders must understand and respect these foundations.
He said Malaysia will remain strong when the spirit of partnership upon which it was formed continues to be honoured and when every part of the Federation feels respected, represented and equally invested in our shared future.
