Malaysia Day interview with PBB info chief Datuk Idris Buang
By Gerrald Gilles
NST: What is the significance of celebrating the national-level Malaysia Day in Sarawak this year?
IDRIS: For the state, Malaysia Day celebration symbolises our claims to restore Sarawak’s rights as enshrined in the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63). The late chief minister Pehin Seri Adenan Satem fought for this and the fight is continued by Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg.
On this day too, we must show our love for Malaysia, Sarawak and MA63. The day signifies that we Sarawakians can stand and sit as high as any Malaysian citizen.
NST: How do you view Sarawak as a model of unity?
IDRIS: Sarawak is known for its various races and religions. The people respect one another. My large family is made up of many different races and religions. We respect each other. The unity and diversity of Sarawak’s cultures, races and religions are best suited as models of unity.
NST: What is your view on the Malaysia Agreement 1963?
IDRIS: We should fight as best we could to get the federal government to adhere to the MA63. As long as the rights of Sarawak are not properly restored, we must fight for the correction. For example, we have received five per cent of the oil and gas produced — RM33 billion since 1974 while Petronas has reaped RM660 billion to date.
This indicates an imbalance or incompatibility with our position as owners of the territory where the oil and gas are found. We need to demand more because Sarawak needs income to develop like Kuala Lumpur.
We have been left behind for so long that our finances have been blocked. We are also demanding that in the spirit of MA63, a financial revision of the federal government which has not been raised for a long time. I would say that roughly RM7 billion to RM8 billion has not been granted. So is the stamp duty that Sarawak has to claim.
We need to get certainty about infrastructure projects such as bridges that are suspended and cancelled by the federal government that should pay for them. The people of Sarawak and the Sarawak government must stand firm in their fight for their rights.
We want autonomy in managing oil and gas, operating ports and managing poor schools in Sarawak. All taxes and income collected by the federal government must be repaid to Sarawak.
At least 50 per cent of tax revenue and income are returned from those collected from Sarawak. Therefore, all citizens should be aware of the importance of reclaiming Sarawak’s rights.
NST:What is the meaning of Malaysia Day for freedom fighters?
IDRIS: Malaysia Day should be celebrated along with freedom fighters comprising the police, military and security forces. Without them, we would not be able to live in peace. There are those who have been killed and some who have lost their limbs. Some among them and their family members have suffered.
Hopefully the Sarawak government can approach them or their beneficiaries so that their services can be remembered. I also hope the state government can contribute financially for their convenience. Security personnel are also aware that without Malaysia Day and peace, we would be a failed nation. Therefore, I am very grateful for their struggles and sacrifices.
NST: What is your hope for the future direction of Malaysia?
IDRIS: My hope is that those who hold government power in Putrajaya respect Sarawak’s rights stated in the Federal Constitution and the MA63 and give Sarawak its rights fairly and responsibly.
We do not want the powers of the federal government to be misused. We do not want to be oppressed, bullied and mollified with empty promises.
Malaysia’s security, strength and sustainability as a meaningful federation can only be cultivated with respect.
A sincere understanding and accountability by upholding the Malaysian spirit in accordance with the MA63 Agreement and the Federal Constitution must be nurtured and protected.
