By Jaythaleela K
MIRI, April 13: The Sarawak government will continue with its efforts to reclaim the state’s rights as enshrined in the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).
“We are not against amending Article 1(2), but we abstained because we wanted our (Sarawak) rights to be restored as enshrined in the MA63,” Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg reiterated today.
Speaking at the `Today for Tomorrow (T4T)’ townhall session hosted by Sarawak Volunteers in Bekenu this afternoon, Abang Johari said the MA63 was crucial to get the eroded rights back.
“Our MPs were not against the amendments, but the contents must include the state’s original status as in the MA63. I hope they could refine the content … arrange it properly.
“We are still in Malaysia, but at the same time, we must fight for our (Sarawak) rights,” he said.
Also present were Bekenu assemblywoman Rosey Yunus, Lambir assemblyman Ripin Lamat, Sibuti MP Lukanisman Awang Sauni, Layar assemblyman Gerald Rentap Jabu, Mulu MP Datuk Gerawat Gala and Assistant Minister for Tourism, Arts and Culture Datuk Lee Kim Shin.
On another matter, Abang Johari stressed the important roles the state’s youths play as leaders of the future.
“You are our assets and continuation in future leadership. The T4T is meant to expose you all on our rights as Sarawakians,” he said, adding that his administration planned to further develop education and modern agriculture to propel the state’s economy.
“I strongly believe we have a good future because we are in the right direction … with the right compass (for direction) that is GPS.”
At the gathering, he announced an allocation of RM5 million to construct the Bekenu waterfront.
“We will also conduct a study for the proposed upgrading of Bekenu community hall,” he said.
Nearly 200 youths were at the townhall session. — DayakDaily
