KUCHING: A state assemblyman has called for greater recognition of Sarawak’s rights and autonomy within the Malaysian Federation.
Batu Kitang assemblyman Datuk Lo Khere Chiang cited ongoing disputes over resources and constitutional matters as key challenges to the state’s progress.
Referring to Murray Hunter’s recent article, ‘Sarawak After 61 Years In The Malaysian Federation: Where To Now? – Analysis’, published in the Journal of Conflict and Peace Studies on Dec 29, Lo noted the article sheds light on the persistent issues Sarawak faces after six decades in the federation.
“Judging from the many discussions and articles circulating today, it is clear that sentiments among Sarawakians regarding our rights and autonomy are growing stronger.
“Many of us feel that if we do not act decisively now, future generations will remain tethered to a system that continues to prioritise Malaya’s interests over Sarawak’s,” he said in a statement.
One pressing issue, according to Lo, is the federal government’s refusal to acknowledge Sarawak’s legal right under the Oil Mining Ordinance 1958 (OMO58) to be the sole gas aggregator within its borders.
He noted that this matter has significant economic implications for the state.
“It exemplifies how our resources are being managed and controlled in ways that deprive us of vital funds necessary for Sarawak’s development,” he said.
Lo also said disputes over Sarawak’s continental shelf remain contested despite the lifting of emergency rule.
He stressed that these resources are critical for Sarawak’s economic growth and must be protected.
Citing Article 2 of the Federal Constitution and the Continental Shelf Amendment Act 2009, he added that Sarawak’s boundaries cannot be altered without the consent of the state legislature, and the federal government has no proprietary rights to Sarawak’s seabed, subsoil or continental shelf, which are vested solely in the state by operation of law.
“As Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari emphasised in a recent address, 1963 did not vest any land comprising the continental shelf within Sarawak’s boundaries in the Federation or the federal government.
“Hence, the federal government has no proprietary rights to Sarawak’s seabed, subsoil or continental shelf, as these were vested solely in the state of Sarawak by operation of law,” he stressed.
Lo pointed out that Sarawak’s claims to its oil and gas resources are supported by historical precedent and constitutional provisions, adding that any challenge to these rights disregards Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) and the state’s sovereignty.
He also criticised the failure to fulfill MA63, particularly regarding fair parliamentary representation.
He noted that Sarawak and Sabah remain underrepresented in Parliament, a situation that undermines their equal status within the federation.
“Promises to honour MA63 have been made repeatedly by successive Prime Ministers, yet many aspects of the agreement remain unfulfilled. This has reduced Sarawak to what feels like a subordinate state rather than an equal partner,” he said.
As such, Lo urged Sarawakians to unite in advocating for the state’s rights and to support local leadership that prioritises Sarawak’s interests.
He also called for the removal of Malayan-based political parties from Sarawak’s political landscape.
“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 emphasised the importance of standing firm in the pursuit of fairness and respect for Sarawak’s autonomy.
“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 and declare: Sarawak First—today, tomorrow, and always.”
