KUALA LUMPUR: One of the main hurdles in resolving claims under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) is the slow federal bureaucratic processes, say analysts.
Therefore, to ensure claims are successfully resolved, it is crucial to foster stronger cooperation between Putrajaya, Sabah and Sarawak, they said.
Universiti Malaysia sociopolitical analyst Assoc Prof Dr Awang Azman Awang Pawi said the Federal Government could strengthen its ties with Sabah and Sarawak by collaborating in infrastructure and economic development, as well as cultural recognition.
“Both governments must prioritise infrastructure projects, especially road networks and Internet connectivity in rural areas to enhance development and accessibility.
“Beyond oil and gas, empowering Sabah and Sarawak to develop their other economic sectors, such as agriculture, tourism and digital economies, will reduce dependence on federal allocations and ensure sustainable growth,” he said.
However, Awang Azman noted that slow federal bureaucratic processes had hindered the implementation of MA63 provisions.
“These delays undermine confidence in the Federal Government’s commitment in delivering promises.
“While PMX has made positive announcements, changes can be shortlived if not supported by continuous political will from successive federal governments, making long-term commitment essential,” said Awang Azman, referring to Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s nickname arising from his position as Malaysia’s 10th Prime Minister.
Last week, Anwar announced an increase from RM300mil to RM600mil in the interim special grant from the Federal Government to Sabah and Sarawak.
Former Sabah Law Society president Datuk Roger Chin said it was important to have clear deadlines and specific milestones for each phase of the implementation process of MA63 provisions.
“Accountability mechanisms should be established to monitor adherence to these milestones and address any delays or shortcomings,” he said.
He said there should be an independent oversight body or an audit body to review the progress of MA63-related projects and also have public engagement.
Chin said other MA63 matters that should be addressed were ensuring Sabah and Sarawak’s autonomy, revenue sharing and infrastructure development.
“The distribution of revenue from natural resources, particularly oil and gas, remains a contentious issue.
“A fair and transparent mechanism for revenue sharing needs to be established, ensuring that Sabah and Sarawak receive a just portion of the profits from their natural resources,” he said.
Universiti Malaysia Sarawak senior lecturer Dr Arnold Puyok said talks on MA63 implementation should focus on discussing progress rather than dwelling on the past.
“Of course, there are still unresolved matters such as the 40% revenue entitlement for Sabah and Sarawak, oil and gas ownership, and the 35% parliamentary representation for these two territories.
“While these issues are important, they don’t require immediate resolution as negotiations are ongoing,” he said.
Puyok said Anwar had demonstrated seriousness in fulfilling MA63 provisions, but said the Prime Minister needed to emphasise the importance of MA63 for the nation’s survival.
“Without MA63, Malaysia wouldn’t exist. Therefore, the celebrations and commemorative programmes surrounding MA63 should be as significant and grand as National Day celebrations,” he said.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof has said 11 demands under MA63 negotiations had been resolved, with seven demands settled under Anwar’s leadership.
