Comprehensive amendment proposes to restore the status of Sarawak as a partner equal
KUCHING: A motion which proposed a comprehensive amendment to the Federal Constitution upon conclusion of discussions on the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) with the Federal government, was unanimously approved by the State Legislative Assembly (DUN)yesterday.
The motion was tabled by Law, State-federal Relations and Project Monitoring Assistant Minister Sharifah Hasidah Sayeed Aman Ghazali.
This result was announced after eight hours of debate from 2pm until 9.45pm.
A total of 47 members from both sides of the political divide debated the motion.
Hasidah said following the debate, she will recommend a detailed draft of the proposed list of amendments be circulated to, discussed and deliberated by the technical committee.
She said Sarawakians are smart enough to determine their destiny and future. They do not have to hang onto the coattails of PAS or Umno or anyone else.
In response to Dr Ting Tiong Choon (DAP-Pujut), Hasidah said: “I want to make it clear in no uncertain terms that we in the government do not expect any favour from anyone.
“We fight for what is constitutionally ours. We do not need charity. All we want are what are legitimately ours. This is our stance; we fight for Sarawak.”
She noted that Bukit Assek and Batu Lintang PH members have put it very nicely that the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) should make a part of Federal Constitution by amending Article 160(2).
“We in GPS will give credit when and where credit is due,” she conceded.
Hasidah stated clearly without a doubt that the state government will continue to make sure the amendment of the constitution will be done comprehensively and not in a piecemeal manner.
She said the state government will continue to safeguard the state’s rights pursuant to MA63 and meet the aspirations of Sarawakians.
She cautioned that the struggle to achieve the desire amendment is easy … not a walk in the park, but it is a walk that will be continued.
Irene Chang (DAP-Bukit Assek) earlier in her debate speech in support of the motion agreed with GPS that the word “pursuant to the Malaysia Agreement 1963” should be included in the amendment to Article 1(2) of the Federal Constitution.
See Chee How (PKR-BAtu Lintang), who also supported the motion, called all members to support the motion.
The second day DUN sitting was adjourned at 10.30pm.
