I’m resolving MA63 because previous leaders promised to do so, says PM

Anwar Ibrahim dismisses claims that his push to fulfil the demands under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 is driven by the fear of losing support from Sarawak and Sabah.

(FMT) – Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has asserted that the government’s efforts to resolve the demands under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) are not motivated by fear of losing support but rather by the desire to fulfil promises made by previous leaders.

Anwar dismissed claims suggesting that his push to fulfil the demands stems from concerns about losing the support of the Sarawak and Sabah governments, Astro Awani reported.

“(Fulfilling MA63 demands) was one of the initial directives I set when I became prime minister, despite the criticisms,” he was quoted as saying at a meet-and-greet event in Kapit, Sarawak.

“Alexander (works minister and Kapit MP Alexander Nanta Linggi) knows this.

“Sometimes the opposition criticises me, alleging that I’m afraid of losing support or that I fear being threatened.”

He clarified that there have been no threats, only suggestions, and he has never felt intimidated by them.

Anwar added that in politics, leaders must honour their commitments, many of which are legacies from past leaders.

As of Sept 13, 11 demands under the MA63 negotiation platform have been resolved, with seven successfully addressed within two years under the unity government led by Anwar.

The remaining unresolved matters pertain to maritime boundaries, oil royalties, stamp duties and the demand for one-third of parliamentary seats to represent Sabah and Sarawak.