TAWAU: The presence of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in Sabah to chair the Technical Committee Meeting on the Implementation of the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) tomorrow (Friday) has garnered attention as the people of this state hold high hopes that the meeting will yield good news regarding Sabah’s rights.
Sabah social activist Mohd. Zaki Harry Susanto said that more than three million residents of Sabah are now eagerly awaiting clear developments, particularly concerning the implementation of the special grant of 40 percent of the net revenue collected by the Federation from this state.
He emphasised that this issue is no longer merely a political demand or a topic for debate; it involves Sabah’s rights that must be addressed seriously and translated into solutions that directly benefit the people.
“When the Prime Minister himself comes to Sabah to chair a meeting regarding the implementation of MA63, the people certainly have high expectations.
“The public wants to see clearer and more convincing developments, especially regarding the special grant of 40 percent. This is one of the most significant matters awaited by the people of Sabah,” he said.
Mohd. Zaki stated that resolving Sabah’s financial issues is crucial as it directly impacts the state’s ability to accelerate development and address the fundamental problems still faced by the people.
He mentioned that additional and fairer financial resources could assist the state government in strengthening efforts to tackle issues related to water supply, electricity, roads, healthcare facilities, education, and rural development.
“When we talk about 40 percent, it is not just a matter of numbers or money. It relates to Sabah’s capacity to move faster in developing the state and resolving long-standing issues that have burdened the people.
“The people want to see more balanced development. They want the issues of water, electricity, roads, and basic facilities to be addressed more effectively,” he said.
However, Mohd. Zaki urged the people of Sabah to allow sufficient space for Anwar or PMX to continue their efforts in resolving the MA63 issues without pressure and sentiments that could undermine the negotiation process.
He emphasised9 that the public should assess the record and achievements objectively, as Anwar’s administration has demonstrated more progressive steps in addressing several of Sabah’s demands compared to previous federal administrations.
“In advocating for Sabah’s rights, we must be firm. However, at the same time, we also need to be fair.
“If we examine the records, PMX has accomplished significantly more regarding the MA63 issue compared to previous Prime Ministers.
“Let us not deny the progress that has been made just because we have not yet received everything we demand,” he stated.
He mentioned that a clear development is the increase in special allocations for Sabah, which previously exceeded RM100 million but has now risen to RM1.5 billion under the leadership of the Federal Government led by Anwar.
“Is RM1.5 billion sufficient? In my view, it is not. Sabah certainly deserves to expect a larger amount.
“However, we must acknowledge that the increase from over RM100 million to RM1.5 billion is a significant change and a positive development. Even so, there are those who turn a blind eye and do not appreciate this achievement.
“This demonstrates that when there is political will and a readiness to engage in discussions, progress can be achieved,” he remarked.
Mohd. Zaki stated that the people of Sabah now hope that this momentum continues until a more comprehensive solution is reached, particularly concerning the formula and implementation of the 40 percent special allocation.
He noted that this issue needs to be resolved carefully and based on the Constitution, but this process should not serve as an excuse to delay the resolution.
“The people of Sabah have waited too long. Therefore, we hope that this meeting can bring new developments and provide a clearer picture regarding the direction of Sabah’s rights implementation.
“The public does not want to merely hear statements that this matter is still under discussion. They want to see progress, timelines, and measurable commitments,” he added.
In addition, Mohd. Zaki praised the approach of the Sabah government led by Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Haji Noor, describing it as mature and strategic in managing relations with the Federal government.
He stated that the state government may appear very tolerant and not confrontational in advocating for Sabah’s rights, yet the achievements recorded thus far demonstrate that negotiation and cooperation strategies also yield progress.
“The Sabah government under Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji adopts a mature approach.
“Some may view the state government’s approach as overly tolerant towards Putrajaya, but we must focus on the outcomes.
“In the matter of special grants and the 40 percent demand, we are witnessing positive developments. This issue will not be resolved through emotions or mere pressure; it requires strategy, negotiation, and firmness,” he said.
He emphasized that the good relationship between the Sabah government and the Federal government should not be seen as a weakness, but rather fully utilized to expedite the resolution of long-standing issues.
Mohd. Zaki mentioned that the people of Sabah must also unite in advocating for the interests of the state without using the MA63 issue solely as a political tool.
“MA63 does not belong to any political party. It is about the rights and future of Sabah.
“Whoever is in power, the responsibility to advocate for Sabah’s rights must continue.
“At this moment, we hope that PMX and the Federal government can seize the opportunity of the meeting in Sabah to bring decisions that truly instill confidence in the people,” he said.
He expressed hope that the Technical Committee Meeting on the Implementation of MA63 at SICC would mark a significant point towards a larger resolution of Sabah’s demands.
“The hopes of more than three million people of Sabah are simple. We want to see Sabah’s rights respected, demands fulfilled, and development accelerated.
“We hope that PMX brings good news. We want to see more progress in the implementation of MA63 and, most importantly, clearer steps towards realizing the special allocation of 40 percent.
“The people of Sabah are willing to give PMX space and time, but the hopes of the people must also continue to be taken into account.
“So far, we have seen positive developments. Therefore, we hope this momentum continues until Sabah receives what is rightfully its own,” he said.
