KUCHING: Batu Lintang assemblyman See Chee How has called for a comprehensive reset of Malaysia’s federalism, emphasising the need for territorial justice to ensure equitable growth and wealth distribution among all states.
He said some legal experts and analysts have criticised Sarawak for reclaiming petroleum and gas resources under its constitutional rights, yet remained silent on the injustice faced by Sarawak, Sabah, and other oil-producing states, which have been among the poorest for the past 50 years.
“However, instead of focusing on arguments, all parties should work constructively to address future challenges.
“What Sarawak, particularly the present state administration has done in the last few years is great for the nation. It has presented a new glimmer of hope that now appeared on the Malaysian horizon.”
He said with the quest to assert territorial sovereignty and rights, backed by the Malaysia Agreement 1963 and the Federal Constitution, the Sarawak government was successful in imposing State Sales Tax for oil, gas and petroleum products.
It also gained traction in regaining ownership and licensing rights to oil and gas fields enabling Petros to work hand in glove with Petronas in the development of the petroleum and gas production, he said.
In a press statement See also said that the Sarawak government has used its increased income to implement statewide development projects and launch strategic initiatives, including a development bank, ventures in hydrogen and green energy, CCUS technology, and the Sarawak Sovereign Wealth Future Fund.
“These efforts, guided by the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, aim for economic prosperity, social inclusivity, and environmental sustainability.
“Relying solely on finite petroleum and gas revenues is shortsighted.
“Sarawak’s visionary blueprint, championed by the Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, serves as a model for Malaysia, highlighting the need for federal reform and territorial justice to ensure equitable growth and wealth distribution nationwide,” he said.
See emphasised the constitutional and historical legitimacy of Sarawak’s territorial boundaries, grounded in colonial laws and agreements such as the MA63.
He stressed that Sarawak’s territorial rights extend to its continental shelf, a distinction he noted is often misunderstood by commentators in Peninsular Malaysia.
“For Sarawak, the legality, constitutionality and legitimacy of her present territorial boundary is rooted in such expanse of legal foundation that is internationally unrivaled. From the Colonial Laws Validity Act 1865 to the Colonial Boundaries Act 1895, the Sarawak (Alteration of Boundaries) Order in Council 1954, the Sarawak (Definition of Boundaries) Order in Council 1958, the North Borneo and Sarawak (Alteration of Boundaries) Order in Council 1960 to the North Borneo and Sarawak (Alteration of Boundaries) Order in Council 1962 and the Sarawak Land Code (Cap 81) 1958.
“It may be our blessing now, but was clearly by design and purpose that took into consideration the international and regional political and socio-economic situations that it was spelt out in no uncertain terms that the boundaries of Sarawak are extended to include the area of the continental shelf being the seabed and its subsoil which lies beneath the high seas contiguous to the territorial waters of Sarawak. The 4 Orders in Council, of 1954, 1958, 1960 and 1962 defined, altered and determined Sarawak’s territorial boundary,” he explained.
See mentioned that the Sarawak government, guided by PCDS 2030, has implemented innovative projects for economic prosperity, social inclusivity, and environmental sustainability.
“By leveraging additional income for infrastructure and strategic programmes, Sarawak is delivering long-term benefits for its people.
“Global and national leaders, including the Prime Minister, have praised Sarawak’s efforts, particularly its alignment with global climate action. These achievements showcase the state as a model for other Malaysian states to emulate, fostering unity and minimising political discord to focus on economic growth and national revitalisation,” he said.
He also said that with Malaysia set to unveil its CCUS framework, it is vital for all states to play key roles as the collaborative approach will not only share responsibilities but also ensure equitable revenue distribution, especially for underdeveloped states.
“The potential wealth from reducing greenhouse gas emissions is immense and critical for combating climate change.
“Sarawak’s leadership exemplifies foresight and commitment. It is my hope that federal and state leaders across Malaysia adopt this vision, prioritising progress over politics to achieve a sustainable and prosperous future for all,” See said.
