KUCHING: The Federal Government is committed to expediting an increase in parliamentary seats for Sabah and Sarawak, says Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil (pic).
The Communications Minister stated that a formal process must be followed, with the Election Commission (EC) prepared to review electoral boundaries once Parliament approves the necessary constitutional amendments.
“We will do our best. What is important is that the process has started,” he said yesterday when asked if the seat expansion could be completed before the next general election.
“The EC issued a statement recently, but several matters must be finalised before they can present a proposal to the Cabinet for parliamentary tabling.
“Nevertheless, the Prime Minister is committed to ensuring the EC speeds up the process.”
Last week, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced the Cabinet’s agreement in principle to boost Sabah and Sarawak’s representation in Parliament, restoring the spirit of the 1963 Malaysia Agreement (MA63).
When the Federation of Malaysia was formed, Sabah, Sarawak and Singapore held one-third of parliamentary seats.
Following Singapore’s departure from the federation in 1965 and subsequent redelineation exercises, Sabah and Sarawak’s combined share dropped to 56 out of 222 seats in the Dewan Rakyat.
Earlier, Fahmi handed Tabung Kasih@Hawana financial aid to press photographer Chimon Upon, whose home was recently damaged in a storm.
“I hope this contribution eases the burden on Chimon and his family,” Fahmi said.
“It shows we are always ready to assist media colleagues facing unexpected hardship.”
Fahmi added that 58 media practitioners in Sarawak have received aid totalling RM172,000 under the fund to date, while RM96,000 has been channelled to 33 recipients in Sabah.
