JOHOR BARU: A special parliamentary committee should be established to ensure the consistent and professional implementation of the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), says a PKR delegate from Sarawak.
Sarawak PKR leadership council deputy chairman Ahmad Nazib Johari said the erosion of autonomy over the years must be addressed by restoring full rights to Sarawak and Sabah as originally outlined in the MA63.
"These include powers over immigration, education, healthcare, and natural resources. Without true autonomy, the meaning of ‘federation’ becomes nothing more than an empty slogan," he said in his debate speech at the PKR national congress on Saturday (May 24).
He highlighted the states’ control over immigration as an example, noting that Malaysian visitors from the peninsula may still be denied entry into Sabah and Sarawak.
He said such controls are necessary to protect local cultural, social, and economic identity from external influence or dominance.
"This is why those from Peninsula Malaysia must apply for work permits or special passes to reside or work in Sarawak and Sabah," he said, also highlighting issues with education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
Ahmad Nazib stressed the importance of restoring the voice of Borneo, saying it is about honouring the original agreement and addressing the question of federal justice, not merely development.
He also called for revenue distribution based on actual needs and contributions and for the creation of a Special Development Fund to uplift rural areas in both Sabah and Sarawak.
