KUCHING: Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg said the most effective approach to reclaim Sarawak's rights as enshrined in the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) and Federal Constitution is via negotiations, guided by legal frameworks and constitutional conventions.
The Sarawak premier said this was the approach taken in the state's pursuit of its rights and is not intended to challenge the federal system of Malaysia.
"Our engagement in diplomatic discussions with the federal government, and our ability to resolve issues constructively, is an evidence to the strength of Malaysia's federalism and the positive, cooperative relationship between the federal and Sarawak governments," he said at the opening of the Speakers's Conference today here.
He said Sarawak's demands are rooted in MA63, which remains the cornerstone of the federation, adding the agreement was designed to ensure that Sarawak's unique position and rights within Malaysia are preserved and respected.
"In this spirit, Sarawak's pursuit of autonomy over its own natural resources, is not an act of anti-federalism but a reaffirmation of federal principles that recognise the rights and unique status of Sarawak within the federation," the premier said.
He explained that the MA63 was not crafted to undermine the federation but to strengthen it.
He noted that the state's recent strides in managing its natural resources are entirely consistent with the Federal Constitution.
"Sarawak, far from overstepping its bounds, is exercising the authority it has been constitutionally granted.
"The management of our oil and gas, for instance, falls squarely within the rights recognised under the Constitution," he said, saying this assertion of Sarawak's autonomy within a federal framework not a departure from it.
He said the approach is very much akin to the Speakers' role to ensure that legislative proceedings are conducted within the parameters set by the Constitution.
He said in the same way, Sarawak acts within the constitutional limits set forth by the Federal Constitution.
"Furthermore, Sarawak's rights over its Continental Shelf are firmly rooted in historical and legal precedents, notably the Sarawak (Alteration of Boundaries) Order in Council 1954.
"This order acknowledges Sarawak's sovereignty over its Continental Shelf, reinforcing our state's authority over its offshore resources.
"By asserting these rights, Sarawak is not attempting to diminish the federation but is instead contributing to its strength by ensuring that it can develop its resources responsibly and sustainably," he said.
Abang Johari said Sarawak remains steadfast in its respect for the federal government's role and responsibilities.
He said the state's goal is not to isolate itself but to collaborate more effectively within the federation.
Sarawak, he said, recognises that the strength of the nation lies in the strength of its parts.
He said his administration is focusing not on what the federal government can do for Sarawak, but rather on how it can contribute to supporting the federal government's efforts.
"For instance, we have allocated our funds to address the repair of dilapidated schools, with the understanding that reimbursement will follow from our federal counterparts.
"This spirit of cooperation fosters a strong relationship with Putrajaya. This same principle apply to our dilapidated clinics and staff quarters," he added.