By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, March 7: Several matters involving the devolution of powers in the education and health sectors under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) are expected to be brought for endorsement at the Malaysia Agreement 1963 Implementation Action Council (MTPMA63) meeting likely to be held by June this year.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Amar Fadillah Yusof said the matters had been discussed during the MTPMA63 Technical Committee meeting on March 2, which he chairs, involving federal government representatives, as well as those from Sabah and Sarawak.
According to him, the meeting reviewed updates on matters already agreed upon and those still under discussion under the MA63 framework.
“Alhamdulillah, several matters have already been agreed upon, including the issue involving Bintulu Port, which has been resolved,” he told reporters after the zakat contribution and packed food presentation ceremony held at Surau Darul Ikhlas, TM Sarawak Hub here today.
Fadillah explained that the March 2 meeting featured special presentations by the Education Ministry and the Health Ministry, covering administrative arrangements and other related matters.
“From the administrative perspective and other related matters, quite a number of issues have already been agreed upon, including which areas or responsibilities can be delegated to Sarawak and Sabah.
“These matters will later be brought forward for approval at the council chaired by the Prime Minister,” he added.
The council meeting, which is also attended by the Sarawak Premier and the Sabah Chief Minister, serves as the highest platform for decisions related to the implementation of MA63.
Fadillah also remained tight-lipped on the details of the MA63 matters, stating: “I have to bring it to the council first to be verified and endorsed. Only after that will it be confirmed and announced.”
He said the next MTPMA63 meeting date has yet to be fixed but is expected to take place between May and June, in line with the council’s practice of convening twice a year.
When asked about the formula for tax revenue distribution involving Sarawak in relation to the special grant under Article 112D of the Federal Constitution, Fadillah said the matter had been discussed but requires further refinement between the Finance Ministry and the Sarawak Financial Secretary’s Office before it can be brought to the council for a final decision. — DayakDaily
