Kota Kinabalu: Sabah and Sarawak need to seriously have a Plan B in case their demand for the return of one-third quota of seats in Parliament is not met by the Federal Government, says Parti Solidariti Tanahairku (Sabah Star).
Its Deputy President Datuk Kenny Chua said both Borneo territories can’t assume that the Federal Government will one give them one-third of voice and decision-making power in the august house.
“Sabah and Sarawak should actively discuss a Plan B. If our demand is not met, we already know the next step which must align with the true aspirations of Sabahans and Sarawakians,” he said in a statement.
He was commenting on the renewed concern expressed by Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg that Parliament might amend the Federal Constitution to revoke the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).
He stressed the importance of having a one-third representation in Parliament from Sabah and Sarawak which will ensure that the MA63 is safeguarded.
“This is a very serious concern that all of us must take heed. This can happen because we’re a minority in Parliament.
According to Chua, it is sad to see that Sabah and Sarawak have been made to beg for their rights.
When Malaysia was formed, Sabah, Sarawak and Singapore made up one-third of the seats in Parliament.
But when Singapore pulled out, its seats were taken by Malaya instead of being given equally to the Borneo territories.
Chua concurred with Abang Johari that the interest of Sabah and Sarawak are not guaranteed if they don’t have one-third of seats in Parliament.
Sabah and Sarawak combined have 56 out of the total of 222 seats in Parliament, which is only about 25 per cent.
Chua also said the Federal Government must respect the position of Sabah and Sarawak as equal partners in the formation of the nation, and not as states like those in Malaya.
“This is a very important historical fact that we must always remember. If Sabah and Sarawak are recognised for their role in nation building, then their rights must be respected and returned,” he said.
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