King's speech highlights urgency to implement MA63, says Kitingan

KOTA KINABALU: His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia's urgent decree for the speedy fulfilment of the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) is an endorsement of its importance as the foundational element of the nation, says Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan.

The Sabah Deputy Chief Minister said that the call highlights the essential need for fair representation and development for Sabah and Sarawak within the Malaysian federation.

"I am profoundly thankful for His Majesty's concern for the well-being of the Bornean states... his words resonate deeply with the aspirations of our people," he said, in a statement here on Tuesday (Feb 27).

"The full implementation of MA63 is not just a matter of historical rectification but a pressing necessity for future prosperity and autonomy," added the Keningau MP.

Delivering his Royal Address at the official opening of the First Meeting of the Third Session of the 15th Parliament here on Monday (Feb 26), the King said he was satisfied with steps taken by the government to resolve issues pertaining to MA63.

His Majesty added that he hoped all interest parties would benefit from the agreement forged in the quest and aspiration of shared prosperity.

Kitingan noted there should be no further delays in the matter, especially since Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had previously assured that the MA63 should be implemented.

"The expression of strong commitment from the government's highest levels dismisses any excuse for procrastination," said the Sabah STAR president.

He also said he was optimistic about the final resolution of Sabah's 40% revenue entitlement issue by August this year.

He also highlighted the significance of unity and economic stability as mentioned by Sultan Ibrahim.

"We must come together, drawing from the strength of our diversity and the resilience of our communities, to build a prosperous and inclusive Malaysia," Kitingan said.