KUCHING: Local law and Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) studies are essential for students to grasp the rationale, principles, and unique constitutional provisions related to Sarawak.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said that Sarawak will soon introduce law courses through an off-campus law faculty of Universiti Malaya (UM) and Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak (Swinburne Sarawak).
“These courses will incorporate elective subjects focusing on Sarawak’s unique legal framework, including native customary rights (NCR), adat laws, and the MA63.
“I was surprised to learn from our friends studying at local universities such as Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysa (UKM) and UM that there are no courses covering our local laws or the MA63.
“Perhaps it was intentionally excluded from the curriculum. However, now that we are offering legal studies, I have requested that MA63 be included as an elective subject,” he said in his speech during the Unit for Other Religions (UNIFOR) appreciation ceremony at Hikmah Exchange and Event Centre here on Wednesday night (Dec 4).
He highlighted the importance of turning MA63 into an academic exercise rather than a polemic, ensuring future generations appreciate the agreement’s historical and legal significance.
“It isn’t a polemic but rather academic exercise. Why do we have all the terms within MA63?
“There must be people to study the rationale behind it, the spirit of MA63 and why we have special treatment in our constitution as far as Sarawak is concerned,” he said.
Meanwhile, Abang Johari stressed the importance of preserving Sarawak’s harmony through mutual respect and understanding among its diverse communities.
This, he believes, forms the foundation for the state’s socio-economic development.
“Our government remains committed to building a happy region with a high-income economy. With World Bank recognition and growing revenue — currently at RM14 billion –we anticipate a brighter future for Sarawak. By sharing the benefits of an expanding economy, we can uplift all Sarawakians,” he added.
In a gesture towards interfaith harmony, he assured continued support for UNIFOR, with potential additional allocations, currently being discussed.
“I will discuss with Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, should there be additional allocations, we will give you additional this year.
“I do not know the figure but definitely is positive for UNIFOR,” said Abang Johari.
