By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, March 11: The Sarawak government appreciates any support it receives in its fight for the State’s rights, especially on oil and gas (O&G), as long as the support is sincere without any political agendas, says Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Law, MA63 And State-Federal Relations) Datuk Sharifah Hasidah Sayeed Aman Ghazali.
According to TVS, she said this when asked for her comments on a press conference held by the Sarawak Democratic Action Party Socialist Youth Sarawak (DAPSY) on March 10.
During the press conference, it was declared that Sarawak DAP is ready to work with Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) in fighting for the State’s oil and gas rights as long as the proposal for Sarawak representatives to hold at least a 30 per cent stake in Petroliam Nasional Berhad (PETRONAS) is backed.
“The important thing is that they (DAP) support the Premier’s efforts. Don’t support only when an election is near or if there is another agenda,” she said after attending a food basket and porridge distribution programme today.
Sharifah Hasidah, who is also the Samariang assemblywoman, said that Sarawak’s fight to reclaim its oil and gas rights is not a new issue as it has been long borne by the State government, especially under Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg’s leadership.
She added that every party should support efforts that benefit Sarawak as a whole, regardless of political background.
“If we support Sarawak’s struggle, support it fully. No matter which party, if it is for the good of Sarawak, then we need to unite. But don’t just support when there is a separate agenda,” she said.
Meanwhile, she said that issues related to the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) are still a priority in the Sarawak government’s negotiations with Putrajaya.
“We will continue discussing matters that have not been fully resolved. There is still much that needs to be refined, so it is an ongoing process,” she said.
At the same time, she said one of the main matters discussed in this month’s technical committee meeting is the new formula for special grants under Article 112D of the Federal Constitution.
She also stressed that Sarawak’s autonomy in education and health is also a major focus in ongoing discussions. — DayakDaily
