KUCHING, May 6: The last-minute postponement of the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) suit at the Kuching High Court Complex yesterday (May 5) is normal when the judge thinks there is something important that needs further examination, says Parti Bumi Kenyalang (PBK) president Voon Lee Shan.
In a statement today, Voon explained that the decision is of great importance for the people of Sarawak and Sabah and learned Justice Alexander Siew How Wai should be given ample time to write his decision.
“May Sabahans and Sarawakians be informed that there are too many novel issues on points of law that His Lordship must carefully examine in his judgment.
“This is because his judgment could attract much interest among academicians, social activists, lawyers, and politicians not only in Malaysia but in the world,” he said.
On the same note, Voon said the delivery of the decision on the MA63 suit filed by 11 plaintiffs against the governments of the United Kingdom, Malaysia, and Sarawak seeking the court to declare the MA63 as an invalid agreement has been deferred to May 25, 2023, at 9am.
“This is a unique case and perhaps is the only case of this nature in the world,” he said.
Acknowledging the discontentment among supporters on the postponement yesterday, Voon said it is normal for the judge to defer judgment at the last minute when the judge thinks there is a need for something important to be further examined.
“Justice could not be rushed because to do so mistakes could be easily caused. Justice Alexander Siew How Wai is a very polite and patient judge who gave me much room in my arguments for the plaintiffs.
“I was greatly relieved about how Justice Alexander Siew handled the suit. However, at this moment, I appeal to all of you to understand the task and heavy responsibility that Justice Alexander Siew is facing in this case,” he added.
Yesterday, the decision on whether to strike out the MA63 suits was postponed without prior notification leading to discontentment among supporters of the plaintiffs who turned up at the Kuching High Court Complex. — DayakDaily
