Implementation of MA63 Must Become Part of National Narrative, Says Anwar

KOTA KINABALU, Sept 11 – Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has called for the implementation of the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) to be integrated into the national narrative rather than being viewed solely as an issue concerning Sabah and Sarawak. Speaking at a press conference following the 2026 Malaysia Agreement 1963 Implementation Action Council (MTPMA63) meeting at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) on Friday, Anwar emphasized that this shift in perspective is essential to ensure all Malaysians understand that the MADANI Government’s commitment to MA63 forms a core component of national policy directly linked to the country’s overall development, stability, and unity.

Stressing the need for nationwide understanding across Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah, and Sarawak, Anwar urged citizens to view the agreement as a collective commitment. “I have proposed that discussions on MA63 be made part of the national narrative. It is very important because otherwise, it becomes a sectoral issue,” Anwar stated. “Every year, we have to hold separate discussions on Sabah and Sarawak. No. This is a national commitment about development, stability, and what we promised when Malaysia was formed. This must be firmly established as a national narrative. We need to encourage Malaysians not to speak only about their race, party or group, but to engage in a broader discourse that strengthens the nation,” he added.

The meeting was also attended by Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor and Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg. Anwar cautioned that residents in Peninsular Malaysia should not view additional budget allocations or specific measures implemented under MA63 as mere special considerations for the Bornean states, but rather as part of a shared nation-building framework.

Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg expressed full support for placing MA63 within a national framework, noting that the approach aligns constitutional guarantees with broader efforts to reinforce national solidarity. “We want to align what is enshrined in the Constitution with the unity of Malaysia as a united nation, a united Malaysia, as we continue our efforts to develop the country,” Abang Johari said. He added that integrating MA63 into the national conversation offers a more practical framework for balancing the interests of the Federal Government, Sabah, and Sarawak, particularly regarding financial administration and national development goals.

–NMT