Sabah should emulate Sarawak's unity in asserting rights, says Kitingan

Borneo Post

5 days ago

Kitingan speaks during the Sarawak Independence Day Cultural Parade 722 today. – Photo by Roystein Emmor
BAU (July 22): Sabah Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Jeffrey Kitingan has lauded Sarawak's political unity and maturity, saying it stands as a model for Sabah to emulate in asserting its rights within the Malaysian Federation.
Speaking at the Sarawak Independence Day Cultural Parade 722 at Tasik Biru here today, Kitingan praised Sarawak's cohesive political front and strong leadership, which he said have enabled the state to engage more confidently with Putrajaya.
'I am in awe of how Sarawak has united its political front and this unity has allowed Sarawak to assert itself with greater confidence and clarity in its negotiations with Putrajaya. That is something we in Sabah can and must emulate.
'Malaysia even has a Deputy Prime Minister from Sarawak now, resulting from that unity,' he said.
Kitingan, who is also Borneo Dayak Forum (BDF) president, reminded attendees of the historical significance of July 22, 1963 – the day Sarawak was granted self-government by the British – ahead of the formation of Malaysia on September 16 that year.
He also highlighted the symbolic meaning behind the identity card numbers beginning with '12' for Sabah and '13' for Sarawak, calling them more than mere administrative codes.
'These numbers are a reminder of our unique positions in the formation of Malaysia. We must not forget that Sarawak and Sabah were both colonies before the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) was signed.
'We must not forget that Sarawak and Sabah were both colonies before the Malaysia Agreement was signed. The journey to nationhood was not straightforward, but what is clear is that we were meant to be equal partners in the Federation and not just another pair of states.
'Malaysia was supposed to be a federation of equals consisting of Sabah, Sarawak, and Malaya, but what transpired was a gradual erosion of that status. That's why we must strive to restore what was agreed upon under the MA63,' he said.
He also commended Sarawak's leaders for their boldness in pushing for recognition of Sarawak Day as a public holiday and for continuing to assert their constitutional rights peacefully.
He said Sarawak's ability to host cultural events like today's parade, complete with traditional costumes and visible expressions of state pride, should serve as a platform for unity — not just for Sarawak, but for all Borneans.
'I am grateful to the Sarawak leadership and to Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, known affectionately as Abang Jo by Sarawakians. Their example shows that when we come together and speak with one voice, even federal leaders will listen.
'We are one people of Borneo, so let us use Sarawak Day as a platform to unite not just Sarawakians, but all Dayaks and Borneans. This solidarity will strengthen our position in Malaysia,' he said.
Kitingan also expressed hope that Sabah would soon celebrate its own historical milestones with equal pride.
He invited Sarawakian leaders and friends to join in celebrating Sabah Day in Kota Kinabalu next month.
'I hope one day Sabah and Sarawak will fully regain our rightful roles as founding partners in Malaysia, as envisioned in the Malaysia Agreement. Let us continue working together, side by side, as equals,' he said. asserting rights Jeffrey Kitingan lead MA63 sabah Sarawak