By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, May 28: The Sarawak Distribution of Gas Ordinance (DGO) 2016 cannot be disputed as it was enacted under the Federal Constitution through Provision 95(c), Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg asserted, while stressing the need to safeguard the Sarawak Legislative Assembly’s (DUNS) legislative powers that enable the State to pass laws in its own interest.
In a TVS news report, he said this constitutional provision is not merely symbolic but represents a fundamental right that allows Sarawak to govern effectively by legislating on matters crucial to the State’s development and sovereignty.
Speaking at the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) Backbenchers Night themed ‘One For All, All for One (Sarawak First)’ at the DUNS complex last night (May 27), Abang Johari urged all State lawmakers to fully understand and appreciate Provision 95(c) of the Federal Constitution, warning against any move that could undermine or relinquish this long-held authority.
“One thing I ask of all DUN members is to take note of our constitutional provision—particularly Provision 95(c)(a) in the Malaysian Constitution.
“This provision restores the legislative powers of the Sarawak DUN. Since the day Sarawak joined the Federation of Malaysia, the DUNS has been empowered by Royal Order to make laws specific to our State,” he stressed.
He reiterated that the DGO 2016 was enacted based on this constitutional authority and stands as a clear example of how Sarawak exercises its legislative rights.
“The Sarawak Gas Distribution Ordinance cannot be challenged because it was made under the Federal Constitution—Provision 95(c), which gives us the legal power to legislate. This power belongs to the DUNS and we must not bargain it away. It is a legislative authority that must be protected,” he emphasised.
Abang Johari further described this legislative power as a valuable asset that must not be compromised, as it is essential to preserving Sarawak’s autonomy and rightful position within the Malaysian Federation.
“With a solid legal framework in place, Sarawak is well-positioned to address and overcome any challenges that may arise. This is how we mitigate problems—by relying on the strength of our constitutional rights,” he said.
He also hinted at a significant announcement concerning Sarawak’s future direction to be made during the final day of the DUNS sitting tomorrow.
“Wait for my announcement tomorrow. I will make an important statement for the future of Sarawak,” he said, without disclosing further details. — DayakDaily
