Any move to limit PM post to single race divisive to Borneo states, says ex-SLS president

KOTA KINABALU: Any moves to amend the Federal Constitution to restrict the Prime Minister's office to Malays will be divisive, especially for Sabah and Sarawak, says former Sabah Law Society president Datuk Roger Chin.

"Altering the Constitution to favour one group over another would not only violate the social contract but also sow division and resentment, especially in Sabah and Sarawak, where the feeling of being marginalised can be stronger," he said.

He said that it was important to strengthen the existing balance among the people of the nation.

"We can uphold bumiputra rights while simultaneously safeguarding the fundamental rights of all Malaysians, including those in Sabah and Sarawak to ensure a level playing field that recognises the unique circumstances and needs of each region within the country," he said.

Chin was commenting on Bersatu Youth Chief and Machang MP Wan Ahmad Fayshal Wan Ahmad Kamal's support to amend the Constitution to allow for only Malay and Muslims to be Prime Minister.

He said the call raised a critical question of how the country balances Malaysia's dream of inclusiveness with the need to recognise bumiputra rights, especially when considering the unique circumstances of Sabah and Sarawak.

"The answer lies in upholding the Constitution, not amending it," he said, adding that the Constitution goes beyond mere equality of opportunity.

"It's about a social contract, a promise made at our nation's birth that every citizen, regardless of race, religion, or region, could find a home here.

"This contract embraces all creeds and colours, forming the bedrock of our nation, unalterable by mere super majority votes," he said.

He said amending the Constitution to exclude certain groups would be a betrayal of this core principle.

"The Constitution has been amended before, it has largely been to adapt to changing circumstances, not to dismantle its fundamental values," added Chin.

He said the social contract was even more crucial for Sabah and Sarawak who brought a distinct racial, religious, and cultural identities that differed significantly from Peninsular Malaysia when they formed Malaysia.

"Respecting this diversity is not just a matter of principle, but a necessity for maintaining unity and harmony within the nation," he stressed.

"While bumiputras deserve their privileges, other communities, including those in Sabah and Sarawak, have rights too: equal access to education, employment, political representation, and economic opportunities.

"These rights, guaranteed by the Constitution, must be respected and protected, he added.

The Malaysian Dream is not just about who becomes Prime Minister; it's about building a nation where everyone feels valued, empowered, and represented, regardless of their background or birthplace, Chin said.