KOTA KINABALU: The idea of a “Borneo bloc” should be understood as an aspiration for greater cooperation between Sabah and Sarawak rather than a formal organisation, said Bob Munang, a Justice of the Peace and a founding life member of the Sabah Action Body Advocating Rights (SABAR).
Munang said the recent statement by Sabah Chief Minister YAB Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor that there is “no such thing as a Borneo bloc” is technically correct, as no formal entity by that name exists.
“In that sense, the Chief Minister is right. The Borneo bloc is not an organisation, not an NGO, and not a legally constituted institution,” he said in a statement.
However, Munang noted that the term has long been used in a broader political and conceptual sense by Sabahans and Sarawakians.
“For many Sabahans and Sarawakians, the term ‘Borneo bloc’ does not refer to a physical structure. Rather, it reflects an aspiration and a sentiment that Sabah and Sarawak, given their shared historical background and constitutional interests, should move in greater unison on matters affecting the two Borneo states,” he said.
According to Munang, the expression symbolises the hope that the two states would coordinate more closely in safeguarding their constitutional rights and ensuring their voices are effectively heard within the federation.
He said the aspiration is well captured by the adage “United we stand, divided we fall,” noting that Sabah and Sarawak would be in a stronger position when they act in concert on issues of common concern.
Munang also pointed to the historical context of the formation of Malaysia under the Malaysia Agreement 1963, which involved Malaya, Sabah, Sarawak and Singapore.
“Sabah and Sarawak were the two Borneon territories that participated in the formation of Malaysia in 1963, entering the federation under arrangements that recognised their distinct historical circumstances and accorded them special constitutional safeguards and a measure of autonomy,” he said.
“It is therefore only natural that many believe the Borneo states should continue to work closely together in preserving the spirit and understanding upon which the federation was founded.”
Munang added that the discussion should not focus solely on whether a “Borneo bloc” exists as a formal entity, but rather on how Sabah and Sarawak can strengthen cooperation in advancing their shared interests and rightful place within the Malaysian federation.
