KUCHING: As discussions regarding the redelineation of parliamentary constituencies gather momentum, numerous voices from Sarawak have started emphasizing the importance of achieving fair representation for the Borneo states.
The notion of Sarawak and Sabah collectively securing one-third of parliamentary seats is in line with the historical commitments enshrined in the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).
For Sarawakians, this initiative would not only enhance their influence in national decision-making but also promote balanced development tailored to the unique challenges of Borneo.
Here are some insights from Sarawakians regarding the potential impacts of this representation.
HADI MOSS, 36
Entrepreneur
Changing how parliamentary areas are divided can be a good thing. It can ensure that each area gets what it needs to grow and improve in different aspects. It also means that voters are represented fairly. Take Melaka and Serian, for example. Melaka has more parliamentary areas even though it’s similar in size to Serian, which only has one Member of Parliament.
JACINTHA JOLENE, 26
Executive
This means they want more seats so they can make sure their ideas and needs are heard when big decisions are made by the government. Sarawak thinks it’s important to ask for one-third of all the seats in Parliament so that the issues that matter to them, like the economy and society, get the attention they need from the country as a whole. Because Sarawak has lots of different types of people and specific problems, having more representatives gives them the power to influence the laws that affect how they grow and thrive, making sure their needs are taken seriously and not pushed aside.
MOHD AMIRUL FAHMI, 32
Entrepreneur
I believe that the Borneo states shouldn’t face any difficulties in securing one-third of the parliamentary seats. This provision is already guaranteed in the MA63 agreement. It’s something that should have happened a while back. So, it’s not a request but more of a rightful claim to honour a commitment.
FIONA GIRI, 48
Housewife
Having a quota in Parliament is important for speaking up and fighting for the rights we want, especially here in Sarawak. The current government is all about claiming the rights laid out in MA63, and by reserving one-third of seats, we think this will help that cause. It means that the concerns and grievances of our people can be heard louder on the national stage. Plus, Sarawak gets more say in any decisions made at the federal level, which is awesome. There might be a few downsides, but we’re pretty confident that the positives will outweigh them.
MICKY LAAH, 52
Retiree
Many Malaysians from different parts of the country might think that this situation will change how politics works in Malaysia. Because most of the seats in Parliament are in Peninsular Malaysia, people from there have more say. But we should think about this differently. If we increase the number of seats in Parliament for Sarawak and Sabah, there would be a more equal voice for people in Borneo. MPs would be able to focus better on smaller areas, which could lead to quicker progress in these states, helping them develop and meet their needs more effectively.
