By David E
KENINGAU: 16 September 2026 – Dr Jeffrey G Kitingan stressed that the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) is a living document binding Sabah, Sarawak and the Federation, and its implementation must be guided by the true spirit of federalism.
“MA63 is not a dead document that can be interpreted at will. It is a living contract between Sabah, Sarawak and Malaya (the Federation of Malaya). What is needed is honest, transparent implementation guided by the true spirit of federalism,” he said at the “MA63: Resolve or Dissolve” forum in Kg. Samalang, Keningau, held in conjunction with Malaysia Day.
He also touched on the Batu Sumpah in Keningau, which symbolises the pledge of Sabahans to defend the state’s rights and standing.
“This Batu Sumpah reminds us that Sabah’s rights are not a gift, but rights enshrined in the constitution and agreement. It is not political rhetoric, but a matter of dignity and the future of Sabahans,” he said.
Meanwhile, after attending the forum, Datuk Seri Panglima Mohd Shafie Apdal said on his personal Facebook page that MA63 implementation must be carried out honestly and transparently to ensure Sabah’s rights, the people’s interests and the future of coming generations remain protected.
He said MA63 is not merely a historical record, but the foundation of Malaysia’s formation that recognises Sabah’s position and rights.
“After 63 years, we want the spirit and the agreement of MA63 to continue to be respected and implemented earnestly,” he said.
“This struggle is not for the interests of any individual or group, but to ensure Sabah’s rights, the people’s interests and the future of coming generations remain protected,” Shafie stressed.
The public forum was organised by United Borneo Front (UBF), Borneo Heritage Foundation (BHF) and Moningolig Pogun Tokou (MOPOT). It discussed MA63, the Batu Sumpah, constitutional rights and Sabah’s future.
Also present were Keningau MP, Sabah state assemblyman and author of the books “Keadilan untuk Sabah” and “Hari Sabah”, Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Jeffrey G Kitingan; former Dewan Deputy Speaker Datuk Lawrence Gimbang; and organising chairman Datuk Petinggi Andrew Atama Katama Ambrose.
Forum organising chairman Dato’ Petinggi Andrew Atama Katama Ambrose said the open forum was organised to give the people space to understand MA63, the Batu Sumpah, constitutional rights and Sabah’s future.
He said the forum received a good response from local residents, community leaders, youths and representatives of non-governmental organisations.
“We want the people to understand that MA63 is not an issue only for urban folk or certain groups. It touches daily life, including land, education, health and development,” he said.
Datuk Lawrence Gimbang stressed the importance of civic education and constitutional awareness among the people, especially in the interior.
“People in the interior, including Keningau, need to understand their rights under MA63 and the Federal Constitution. Civic awareness and proper political education are key to ensuring these rights are not sidelined,” he said.
According to him, the Batu Sumpah is not merely a monument, but a pledge by Sabahans to defend the state’s rights and autonomy.
The forum also discussed issues related to Sabah’s constitutional rights, MA63 implementation and the state’s future within the Malaysian framework.
