GEORGE TOWN: Finding common ground between Putrajaya and the states is kengthening Malaysia, says Datuk Sharifah Hasidah Sayeed Aman Ghazali.
The Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier's Department in charge of law, MA63 and federal-state relations said there should be no fear or mistrust in federal-state relations, which must be guided by the Constitution, the rule of law and mutual trust.
"We do not have to fear each other. We have to try to find common ground," she said during a press conference at Penang Institute on Thursday (June 11).
Sharifah Hasidah said the relationship between the federal and state Governments should transcend political affiliations, as party dynamics can change over time.
"It does not matter whether the governments are led by the same political parties or different ones. What is important is that the relationship remains equitable and within the framework of the Constitution and the law," she said.
She added that trust between both levels of government was essential in ensuring effective cooperation and resolving long-standing issues, including Sarawak's efforts to reclaim its rights under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).
According to her, Sarawak has consistently pursued its constitutional rights over the years, and the process has become smoother under the current unity government.
She said reforms, including constitutional and legislative amendments, should be undertaken when necessary to strengthen institutional and structural arrangements between the Federal and State Governments.
"What is important is for us to continue pursuing institutional, structural and constitutional changes where needed," she said.
She stressed that a stronger and more prosperous Sarawak would contribute directly to national growth.
"At the end of the day, if the states are strong, Malaysia will be strong. If the states are prosperous, Malaysia will be prosperous.
"If Sarawak is wealthy and developed, Malaysia will also benefit because Sarawak contributes through taxes, revenue and many other sectors that support national development," she added
Sharifah Hasidah was part of the attendees at the Penang State Assembly Select Committee on State-Federal Relations' Interstate Forum on State-Federal Relations at Penang Institute.
The forum was also attended by Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, Select Committee on State and Federal Relations Gooi Hsiao Leung, state executive councillors from Terengganu, Perlis, Kelantan, Selangor and Penang state assemblymen.
