Minister Mustapha Sakmud stresses that pursuing MA63 rights must go hand-in-hand with the collective duty to build a progressive and harmonious nation.

KUALA LUMPUR: Demands for the implementation of the Malaysia Agreement 1963 must align with the responsibility of building a progressive and harmonious nation.

Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Mustapha Sakmud said the effort to pursue MA63 rights cannot be separated from the collective duty to develop the country as a whole.

“As we fight for our rights, we must never forget that we also have a responsibility to build this nation,” he said in a special interview.

He added that this principle would guide his approach in resolving outstanding matters related to the agreement.

On the progress of negotiations, he said 13 of the 29 issues raised have been fully resolved.

One issue has been settled on an interim basis, while 15 others remain under negotiation.

As part of efforts to address pending issues, Mustapha said he has held discussions with Sabah and Sarawak state leaders.

He has also conducted engagement sessions with over 130,000 federal civil servants in both regions.

“As policy implementers, they must have a clear understanding of MA63,” he stated.

On infrastructure development, an issue often linked to MA63, Mustapha said he will be involved in a special monitoring committee.

The committee is tasked with accelerating delayed or troubled projects in Sabah and Sarawak.

Inspections have already begun on several stalled and new projects to ensure early-stage monitoring.

“Some people view pothole-ridden roads or the lack of infrastructure as a failure to implement MA63,” he noted.

He believes resolving basic infrastructure issues can reduce such polemics.

Mustapha stressed that basic infrastructure must be prioritised and implemented transparently.

This includes water supply, electricity and road networks in Sabah and Sarawak.

“I do not want us to fight for MA63, including securing the 40% revenue entitlement and other rights, only to find that roads remain damaged,” he said.

He concluded that people would question the value of the MA63 struggle if basic problems remain unresolved.

 The Sun Malaysia