THE Sarawak government is actively pursuing the restoration of Sarawak’s special rights and privileges as stipulated in the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).
Deputy Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government Michael Tiang said this was being done not only to the letter but also translating these special rights and privileges to real life benefits to the people and the state.
Tiang said under Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg’s visionary leadership, the Sarawak government continues to study and look into various key initiatives to increase the state’s revenue.
“This is through enhancing, widening and diversifying its revenue sources, without depleting our beautiful natural resources,” he said when tabling the motion of adjournment on the last day of the DUN sitting, today (May 24).
Tiang, who is Pelawan assemblyman said Sarawak’s new economy model is also focusing on restructuring and diversifying as well as building physical and digital infrastructure to link Sarawak to the global market.
“This will become the platform for Sarawak’s economy to grow.
“Therefore, to emerge as a stronger region, Sarawak has embarked on a full-fledged transformation and capitalise on mega-trends around the world,” he added.
According to him, Sarawak has witnessed significant progress where several accomplishments have been made such as the amendment to Article 1 (2) of the Federal Constitution which has restored the status of Sarawak and Sabah and also have representative from Sarawak in the Inland Revenue Board (IRB).
Despite the accomplishments, he said the government should not rest on its laurels.
“We must continue to fight to preserve our interests and rights to develop our beloved Sarawak to be on par with the rest of Malaysia in terms of development,” he said.
