By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Dec 31: Amid ongoing challenges and perceived injustices faced by Sarawak within Malaysia, Batu Kitang assemblyman Dato Lo Khere Chiang opined that these issues are fueling a growing collective desire among Sarawakians to pursue independence.
He referenced an article by Murray Hunter, titled “Sarawak After 61 Years in the Malaysian Federation: Where To Now? – Analysis,” published on Dec 29, 2024, in the Journal of Conflict and Peace Studies, which Lo described as offering a sobering look at Sarawak’s position in the federation after six decades.
Among the issues raised are Malaya’s refusal to acknowledge Sarawak’s legal right under the Oil Mining Ordinance 1958 (OMO58) to be the sole gas aggregator within its borders, its continued claim over Sarawak’s continental shelf, and the failure to fulfil the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), which was intended to ensure Sarawak’s equal status within Malaysia, including fair parliamentary representation.
“While Hunter’s article suggests that only a small segment of urban middle-class and professional Sarawakians support independence, I respectfully differ.
“If a referendum were held today, I firmly believe many Sarawakians would opt for independence. The growing awareness of the injustices Sarawak faces has sparked a collective desire for a future where Sarawakians chart their own destiny,” Lo said in a statement today.
Drawing a comparison to Singapore’s rise after its separation from Malaysia, Lo emphasised that Sarawak, with its abundant natural resources and strong leadership, is capable of thriving independently.
“One key step is to ensure that Sarawak’s political landscape is governed by those truly loyal to Sarawak’s interests. Malayan-based political parties should no longer operate in Sarawak.
“Our leaders must prioritise the needs of Sarawakians without being influenced by external interests. Local opposition parties alone can provide the checks and balances needed to advocate for Sarawak’s priorities effectively,” he added.
Lo further reminded that this is not about incitement or division but about fairness, respect, and securing a better future for Sarawak.
“Let us rise together, stand firmly with our Premier of Sarawak, and declare: Sarawak First—today, tomorrow, and always,” he concluded. — DayakDaily
