A total of 40 participants from four countries took part in an online discussion to deepen their understanding of the Malaysia Agreement 1963 and the special rights of Sabah and Sarawak.
TENOM – Some 40 participants from Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines and Spain took part in the Diplobate MA63 Dialogue, held online on Wednesday, to enhance understanding of the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) and Sabah’s rights within the Federation.
The dialogue, organised by Diplobate International, featured political analyst and Southeast Asia expert Prof. James Chin, who shared his views on MA63’s position as the foundation of Malaysia’s formation, Sabah’s 40 per cent revenue entitlement, and the importance of ensuring that the voices of Sabah and Sarawak continue to be heard.
Prof. James Chin stressed that MA63 is not merely a historical document, but rather a constitutional foundation that remains relevant in determining the relationship between the federal government and Sabah and Sarawak.
According to him, the issue of the 40 per cent revenue entitlement is not a matter of federal goodwill, but pertains to a constitutional responsibility and the original spirit of Malaysia’s formation.
“Putrajaya must learn to listen to the voices of Sarawak and Sabah,” he said.
He also emphasised that young people must play a role in shaping public awareness of constitutional issues and should not leave discussions on MA63 entirely to political leaders.
Meanwhile, Diplobate International president Ryan Yong said the dialogue aimed to give Form Six students an understanding of Sabah’s rights under MA63 beyond classroom learning.
He said the programme also opened space for participants from Peninsular Malaysia and abroad to understand Sabah’s position within the Malaysia Agreement 1963, while introducing Sabah to the international community.
The dialogue, held via the Zoom platform, was also attended by Tindarama Datuk Joanna Kitingan as guest of honour.
Throughout the session, participants were exposed to the importance of MA63 as the nation’s constitutional foundation, the special rights of Sabah and Sarawak, the importance of equitable revenue distribution, and the role of the younger generation in strengthening understanding of national issues.
The dialogue reflected growing awareness among youths of constitutional issues concerning the rights and interests of Sabah and Sarawak within the federal government.
