Datuk Seri Dr Maximus Ongkili. -Star filepic
KOTA KINABALU: Opposition Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) has called for the proposed amendments on Article 1(2) of the Federal Constitution to be referred to a Select Committee in Parliament prior to debate and voting.
Its president Datuk Seri Dr Maximus Ongkili (pic) said that it was crucial in order to get the full input from all parties, both the government and general public.
“This is the best way to capture the aspirations and concerns of the people in Sabah and Sarawak. There is, indeed, more to the amendment of Article 1(2) of the Federal Constitution than just restoring the rights under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).
“The matter is not just about amending the Article in the Constitution. Equally important are the accompanying by-laws and instruments to implement the position of equal status (between Sabah, Sarawak and Malaya),” the Kota Marudu MP said in a statement on Thursday (April 4) .
He noted that the proposed amendments were possibly the most important ever after the formation of Malaysia for the Borneo states, especially since it would restore equal status of the Sabah and Sarawak to Malaya in the Federation.
“Hence, consultation of the highest level with Sabah and Sarawak is critical and necessary, including tabling the proposed amendments in both Legislative Assemblies to get maximum input from its leaders,” he said.
Ongkili said that this was not a normal amendment, adding that the implications are far-reaching in terms of laws and legislation that will need amending.
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