By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Feb 13: Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) remains committed in ensuring that the rights enshrined in the Federal Constitution, Sarawak Constitution, Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), and the Inter-Governmental Committee (IGC) Report are respected and upheld.
Deputy Premier and PBB deputy president Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan emphasised that these principles form the foundation of a strong and stable government within the Federation of Malaysia.
“When these principles are upheld, Malaysia will thrive as a harmonious federation where both the federal and state governments progress together in the spirit of the Federal Constitution, Sarawak Constitution, MA63, and the IGC Report,” he said in an interview at Wisma Sumber Alam ahead of the 16th PBB Convention.
Awang Tengah highlighted that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has affirmed the importance of preserving and implementing the agreements made by past leaders.
“The rights of Sarawak must not only be respected but also fulfilled. This matter also be discussed in this year’s convention, as PBB recognises it as a fundamental principle for our collective well-being,” he said.
He expressed gratitude that through the MA63 Action Council, many issues related to MA63 have been successfully resolved, and he remains optimistic that the remaining matters will continue to be pursued.
“This is our right. As the late Tok Nan (Pehin Sri Adenan Satem) once said, ‘Nothing more, nothing less’,” he stressed.
As an equal partner in the formation of Malaysia, he reiterated that Sarawak and Sabah enjoy special privileges, including additional items in the State List and the Concurrent List, which are not granted to other states.
This division of legislative powers plays a crucial role in maintaining balance between the federal and state governments, particularly for Sarawak and Sabah.
Awang Tengah also emphasised that PBB, as the backbone of the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) government, is committed to developing Sarawak’s key sectors, including oil and gas, agriculture, tourism, and timber.
“In 2020, the Sarawak government signed the Commercial Settlement Agreement (CSA) with PETRONAS, witnessed by the federal government. This agreement provides a framework for Sarawak’s oil and gas sector development,” he explained.
At the same time, Sarawak is prioritising renewable energy, digitalisation, the green economy, and the circular economy to ensure sustainable growth under the Post-Covid Development Strategy (PCDS), with the goal of achieving advanced and high-income status by 2030.
With political stability spearheaded by PBB, he noted that the Sarawak government has successfully fostered unity among its multiracial society through various initiatives.
“Sarawak’s revenue continues to grow through revenue reengineering led by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg. This will further strengthen our financial position, ensuring that Sarawak continues to prosper for the benefit of future generations.
“The unity and strength of PBB, as the backbone of the GPS government, must always be preserved while we adapt to changing times to remain relevant,” he said.
As the party gears up for the convention scheduled from Feb 14 to 16, Awang Tengah urged all members to remain united in their commitment to Sarawak’s progress.
“I wish everyone a successful convention, as this assembly involves party elections. Those elected must serve with dedication, while those who do not win must continue contributing to the party and Sarawak. This convention is about unity and strengthening PBB.
“We must remain solid, strong, and stable to meet the expectations of the people and build a brighter future for Sarawak. Our collective struggle and responsibility are to ensure a better tomorrow for Sarawak,” he concluded. — DayakDaily
