KOTA KINABALU: Former Communications and Multimedia Minister Datuk Seri Dr Salleh Said Keruak has urged East Malaysian politicians to advocate for the complete execution of the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) in the upcoming general election.
He stressed that these politicians should not merely await a court decision regarding MA63, Sabah’s right to 40% of net federal revenue, and fair development.
“Waiting for court decisions alone is not enough. These issues must also be addressed politically.
“In a democracy, real change requires a clear mandate from the people, and a general election is the proper platform to determine that mandate,” he said in his latest Facebook post.
Salleh mentioned that two significant matters concerning Sabah and Sarawak are currently under judicial review, centring on constitutional rights and the execution of the Malaysia Agreement 1963.
“The judiciary will elucidate the law, but this process may require time and involve multiple levels of appeal,” he stated.
The former Chief Minister emphasised that in the Westminster system of parliamentary democracy, numbers are crucial.
Sabah holds 25 seats, Sarawak has 31, and Labuan contributes 1—totalling 57 out of 222 parliamentary seats. In numerous instances, no federal government can be established without this backing, particularly in efforts to achieve a two-thirds majority,” he remarked.
He asserted that this position should be leveraged strategically, as strong numbers enhance bargaining power.
“Lacking this, demands may face delays. Conversely, possessing it elevates these issues to a central role in government formation.
“The priorities must be explicit: complete execution of MA63; equitable revenue sharing, including the 40% entitlement; increased administrative autonomy; and equitable development.
“The judiciary delineates rights, but the realisation of these rights hinges on political determination. These matters should be resolved by the populace and transformed into definitive commitments within election manifestos. Establishing Autonomy Rights as a Pivotal Election Mandate,” he concluded.
