There is something different between defence deal and deal in defence.
– Nirmala Sitharaman, Indian politician
The main purpose of a federation is to make sure that the rights and interest of all its component territories and states are protected in relation to national, economic and social matters.
In the case of Sarawak, the federal government needs to pay attention to some key aspects such as defense of Sarawak’s territorial integrity, advancing its economy and ensuring that the terms of the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) are both restored and upheld.
Internationally, the defense and protection of one’s territory and boundaries are of prime importance to a nation.
In the Ninth Schedule of our Federal Constitution under List 1 of the Federal List, our external affairs and defence of the federation is under the exclusive purview the federal government.
Yet with increasing frequency we have read reports about encroachment into our waters by foreign fishing vessels. The federal authorities must make sure our fish resources are not stolen. This is their responsibility.
What is even more worrying are the territorial claims on Sarawak waters. We need clear statements from the federal authorities that these waters are ours and that they will rigorously defend the boundaries.
Foreign naval vessels have been known to have a permanent presence in our waters. Some press reports have mentioned that China keeps a “permanent watch” at Laconia Shoals off the coast of Sarawak, which impinges on Malaysian sovereignty.
Our Foreign Minister has stated in the press that Malaysia’s naval assets would struggle to match the Chinese Coast Guard, which he said has a near 24-hour presence around the South Luconia Shoals off Sarawak. Our prime minister has also said that “Malaysia was too small to stand up to the Asian powerhouse”. So, it seems ships are still surveying our waters for oil and gas without permission.
Is this not admitting an abdication of a constitutional duty by the federal government? Is this also not sending a message to other nations that they can encroach into our territory any time? It is important in such situations that protest notes be sent to nations that infringe on our sovereignty.
Additionally, our federal government also has a responsibility to make sure there is economic prosperity here. Since they control many of the economic policies and the federal budget, Sarawak also relies on financial grants and funds for development.
Compared to the billions of ringgit generated from Sarawak’s oil, we receive a pittance back from the federal government. The discrepancy between our development and Malaya is obvious due to federal neglect.
I also wonder how much foreign direct investments the PH government have brought to Sarawak. How many businesses have the PH government attracted to Sarawak?
Recent statements by our prime minister on the internal affairs of other countries have also led to possible negative impact on the export of Sarawak palm oil.
We are, however, fortunate that in a recent message, Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg basically said the development of Sarawak cannot be left entirely to the federal government. He emphasised that Sarawak’s future can only be determined by Sarawakians.
He laid out four core thrusts to bring Sarawak to developed status by 2030. This involves the transformation of agriculture to technology-based farming; improvements to the tourism industry; improvement to infrastructure development and communication system including upgrading to 5G Internet and lastly boosting the development of education and training to prepare Sarawak for Industry 4.0.
A further important point related to the protection of Sarawak and its way of life is MA63. The restoration of our autonomy was a linchpin promise made by PH Sarawak. In fact, one of their component members during their 2015 AGM passed resolutions to devolve power in four main areas — education, healthcare, police and taxation — to the Sarawak government.
They are silent on these resolutions now including the 20 per cent oil royalty. This is strange considering that they were strong supporters of restoring the rightful autonomy and equal partner status to Sarawak.
Instead of restoring autonomy the PH government just announced plans to destabilise Sarawak. They have planned to implement the Federal Village Community Management (MPKKP) committees with which to conquer Sarawak. It is an obvious step towards total control and domination. This divide-and-rule move is an old colonial trick to tear our peaceful communities apart.
Our chief minister has pointed out very rightly that “if they take over, our oil and gas would be ‘habis’ (gone),” and “they would make a move on the state’s land” by changing the laws.
Sarawakians must understand that voting for Malaya-based political parties is a disaster waiting to happen. Unfortunately, some have already fallen for their promises ‘hook, line and sinker’.
Let’s hope they wake up in time. They must not meekly standby and watch Sarawak being destabilised because only real Sarawakians can and will protect and defend Sarawak with all their hearts and minds.
The views expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the New Sarawak Tribune.
