SARAWAK INDEPENDENCE
KUCHING: The main challenge facing Sarawak’s independence movement is how it can be achieved in a peaceful manner, said Batu Kitang assemblyman Lo Khere Chiang.
“We want independence because we want our wealth back, and the legal framework to protect our wealth,” he said.
He was speaking at a Movement of Change Sarawak (MoCS) forum entitled ‘Independence: The Final Destination’ at the DBNA Hall here, yesterday. His talk was entitled, ‘SUPP’s Stand on Referendum’.
“Is Malaya treating us fairly? Is this an equal partnership as enshrined in the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63)?” he questioned.
He elaborated that under circumstances such as oil and gas issues faced between Sarawak and Malaya, who would not want independence?
Lo said that with differing views on independence, the state had to analyse how to achieve this in light of so many uncertainties.
“As for when is the right time to bring up the subject of independence to the United Nations (UN), your guess is as good as mine,” he added.
Meanwhile, Batu Lintang assemblyman See Chee How, who is also legal advisor of MoCS, said that everyone should come together regardless of political ideology in independence efforts.
Parti Solidariti Tanah Airku (Sabah STAR) president Datuk Dr Jeffrey Kitingan, who was barred from entering Sarawak, shared his views via teleconferencing during the forum.
He said that Sarawak and Sabah were being treated and exploited like colonies.
Touching on independence for the two states, he said, “We have journeyed and suffered together.”
“At the end of the day, if we decide to exit or separate (from Malaysia), I think we should do it together when we are ready,” he said.
Other speakers at the forum included MoCS president Francis Paul Siah and Parti Bumi Kenyalang president Voon Lee Shan.
