SANDAKAN: Elopura State Assemblyman Calvin Chong expressed his disappointment and firmness regarding the Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s statement, which once again raised the narrative of unity and shared commitment during his recent official visit to Sabah.
He said that such statements are not new; in fact, they have been repeatedly heard by the people of Sabah for a long time without any real results that significantly impact the state’s position within the Federation of Malaysia.
“The people of Sabah have been fed promises and rhetoric for too long every time the country’s top leaders visit here. However, the reality is that, to this day, the fundamental issues that are the main demands of Sabah have still not been fully implemented,” he emphasized.
Calvin Chong stressed that the issues related to the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) are not new; rather, they are the foundation of Malaysia that must be respected and implemented without compromise.
He described the ongoing failure to implement MA63, particularly regarding financial rights and payments to Sabah, as a form of neglect towards the rights of the state that are clearly enshrined in the agreement.
“For years, Sabah has been waiting. How much longer must the people of Sabah be patient? Until when will the Federal Government continue to hide behind excuses and negotiations?” he said in a statement.
He further added that the Prime Minister’s visit to Sabah should not be used as a basis to demonstrate concern if no concrete actions follow.
“Being present in Sabah, meeting the people, attending events and programs means nothing if Sabah’s rights continue to be denied. True concern is measured through implementation, not mere presence,” he stated firmly.
In this respect, Calvin Chong questioned the sincerity of the Federal Government in advocating for the welfare of Sabah.
