by DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Dec 3: Race-based governance in Malaysia threatens national unity and oftentimes, national policies fail to recognise Sarawak’s unique position, rights, and contributions, Parti Bumi Kenyalang (PBK) president Voon Lee Shan cautioned.
It is in this scenario, he warned, could intensify frustrations and Sarawakians may eventually speak more forcefully about their future, including the possibility of separating from Malaysia.
“When development priorities are shaped by racial considerations, communities outside the majority often feel left behind. Many Chinese and Indian Malaysians experience this, and in Sarawak, Dayak communities have increasingly voiced their frustrations — asserting their identity not out of hostility, but out of a desire to be heard, respected, and treated fairly,” he said in a press statement.
“When national policies fail to recognise Sarawak’s unique position, rights, and contributions, frustration naturally grows. If this trend accelerates, Sarawakians will inevitably speak with a louder voice about their future — including the call for separation from Malaysia,” he added.
“In fact, sentiments for greater autonomy — and even independence — have been rising among Sarawakians. These sentiments are not manufactured; they stem from the historical context of Malaysia’s formation.
“Separation was discussed as a legitimate possibility during the early Malaysia Plan negotiations, and assurances were given to the Borneo territories that their rights and status would be safeguarded. When those assurances feel eroded, it is only natural that people revisit the question of their political future.”
Voon emphasised that policies should uplift all who need help, ensure fair development across every community, and strengthen genuine representation.
“A Malaysia for all Malaysians — Malay, Chinese, Indian, Dayak, Kadazan, Orang Asli and others — is not just an ideal; it is the only sustainable path forward. Unity is not achieved through race politics. Unity is achieved through fairness.,” he said. – DayakDaily
