KOTA KINABALU: The Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) remains a crucial cornerstone in the nation's history, shaping the relationship between Sabah, Sarawak and the Federation of Malaysia, says the Sabah Action Body Advocating Rights (Sabar).
The non-governmental organisation’s organising chairman Jeyan Marimuttu, on Friday (Jan 17), while speaking at the “Formation of Malaysia Revisited” talk by former Attorney General Tan Sri Tommy Thomas, said it is important to understand MA63 in the context of British decolonisation and Malaysia’s formation.
He said that as Britain withdrew from its colonies, Sabah and Sarawak were incorporated into Malaysia through an agreement that set out specific guarantees and safeguards for their autonomy and development.
He also said that it is essential to have an external legal expert provide insights on MA63, particularly from a federal perspective.
“This discussion is an opportunity for a fresh, independent perspective on MA63 and its implications. It is vital for Sabahans to hear viewpoints from across the South China Sea, fostering a deeper understanding of our rights and the vision of our founding fathers,” he said.
Jeyan highlighted two key ongoing cases: The 40% Special Grant Entitlement, pursued by the Sabah Law Society to secure Sabah’s rightful share of revenue under the Federal Constitution, and the Territorial Sea Act Challenge, filed by Sabar to question the constitutionality of the Act, which restricts Sabah’s maritime boundaries.
“These legal actions are critical in ensuring that the guarantees under MA63 are not just historical commitments but legally enforceable rights,” Jeyan said.
