By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Jan 11: The division of powers between Sarawak and the federal government reflects a careful balance that ensures unity and preserves autonomy.
According to a news report by Information Department, Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg stated that Sarawak exercises control over critical areas such as land and natural resources, while the federal government oversees defense and foreign policy.
“This structure embodies the principles of federalism, which Sarawak remains steadfast in defending as the foundation of Malaysia’s administrative system,” he said during his speech at the Opening of the Legal Year of Sabah and Sarawak 2025 (OLYSS 2025) gala dinner , held at a local hotel last night (Jan 10).
Abang Johari emphasised that federalism serves as the very foundation of Malaysia’s formation, where Sarawak holds a significant position as one of the founding partners of the Federation.
He highlighted that the Federal Constitution, meticulously crafted to preserve unity, delineates the powers of the federal and state governments, ensuring the balance of responsibilities.
Sarawak’s journey within the Federation of Malaysia, which began in 1963, is rooted in the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) and the Inter-Governmental Committee Report of 1962.
These pivotal documents, alongside the Federal Constitution, safeguard Sarawak’s autonomy by granting it unique rights and powers.
“The foundational documents recognise Sarawak’s distinct characteristics, granting special rights and powers to safeguard its autonomy,” he asserted.
Abang Johari further expressed his vision of federalism as a framework that unites diversity, enabling each state’s strengths to contribute to Malaysia’s overall success.
“By respecting the constitutional framework, Sarawak strengthens its role within Malaysia, ensuring that our Federation continues to thrive as a symbol of unity and progress,” he added.
Also attending the event were notable figures including the Chief Judge of Sabah and Sarawak Tan Sri Abdul Rahman Sebli, Attorney General of Malaysia Dato’ Mohd Dusuki Mokhtar, Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Law, MA63, and State-Federal Relations) Datuk Sharifah Hasidah Sayeed Aman Ghazali, Sarawak Attorney General Dato Sri Saferi Ali, Sabah Attorney General Datuk Brenndon Keith Soh, Sarawak Courts director Steve Ritikos, and Sabah Courts director Marutin Pagan. — DayakDaily
