Two states regain some autonomy

Historic decision: The formal surrender of the Sipadan and Ligitan islands entails the handing over of full administrative control to Sabah.

KOTA KINABALU: There has finally been a breakthrough on two long-standing issues in Sabah and Sarawak, thanks to the formation of the Special Council on Malaysia Agreement 1963, says Datuk Seri Dr Maximus Ongkili.

The Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Sabah and Sarawak Affairs) said the council has agreed to hand over the administration of Sipadan and Ligitan islands to the Sabah government, while Sarawak would have full control of its gas distribution.