by David E.
KENINGAU: Sept 16, 2025 – The 2026 Keningau district-level Malaysia Day celebration at Batu Sumpah here became a platform for uniting the people and reminding stakeholders of their responsibility to fulfil the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), said Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Jeffrey Kitingan.
He said the gathering marked 63 years since the formation of Malaysia and was not a stage for religious politics.
“We gather at Batu Sumpah in Keningau to commemorate the formation of Malaysia and to see how far the agreement reached 63 years ago has been implemented,” he said at a press conference.
Jeffrey said the uniqueness of this year’s celebration was that Malaysia is 63 years old, making it a space for all parties to unite. Batu Sumpah, he said, was of great significance because without Batu Sumpah, there would be no Malaysia.
“The indigenous communities in the interior would only agree to the formation of Malaysia if their interests were taken into account,” he said.
The three issues enshrined at Batu Sumpah are religious freedom, land rights and traditional customs, which must be respected and preserved. He stressed that these were part of the Malaysia Agreement and conditions for safeguarding Malaysia.
In his speech, Dr Jeffrey urged the Federal Government to respect the spirit and true meaning of the formation of Malaysia. Outstanding matters must be resolved with a timetable, responsible institutions and measurable outcomes. The phrase “still under discussion” cannot be the answer forever.
To the Sabah government, he urged that state rights be defended firmly, systematically and unanimously. Sabah’s rights cannot belong to any party. The government and opposition must unite when fundamental Sabah interests are involved.
To the people of Sabah, Dr Jeffrey called on them to learn history. Understanding of MA63 cannot be left to politicians alone. The people must read, understand and teach it to their children. A people who understand history are not easily divided, manipulated or forgotten.
To the younger generation, he said Batu Sumpah is not a tale of the older generation. Their future is at stake. Land, education, employment, state revenue, decision-making power and the continuity of customs are all linked to Sabah’s position within Malaysia.
“Questioning is not betrayal. Demanding the implementation of the agreement is not a threat. That is our responsibility to future generations,” he said.
Meanwhile, Datuk Seri Panglima Mohd Shafie Apdal said Malaysia Day is the independence day of the people of Sabah and Sarawak. The celebration must be internalised, not merely celebrated, because its substance determines the people’s well-being.
“History teaches us much, but the people have not learned. It is important that every celebration examines the condition of the people in terms of health, education, basic amenities and daily life,” he said.
Shafie said that since 2021, 17 matters have been agreed upon, but these are only part of broader demands. Among them is that the management of gas, electricity and oil be handed over to Sabah, as is the case with Sarawak. The interim differences involving the 40 per cent, and Articles 112C and 112D, must be understood.
He stressed that the demands were not for personal interest but for the sake of future generations. The implementation and fulfilment of promises must be carried out as best as possible.
Dr Jeffrey ended the press conference by urging the people to unite and demand their rights together with their leaders.
Welcoming of Arrivals
Photo with those present
