National stability must reflect partnership with Sabah, Sarawak, says Salleh

 Ex-Sabah chief minister says Umno's aspiration for greater Malay and Muslim unity should not become the sole framework under which political stability is defined.

Former Sabah chief minister Salleh Said Keruak said Malaysia will be strong when the spirit of partnership upon which it was formed continues to be honoured, and when every part of the federation feels respected. (Bernama pic)

PETALING JAYA:

Former Sabah chief minister Salleh Said Keruak says any discussion on political stability must also recognise the social and political realities of Sabah and Sarawak.

He was responding to a statement by Umno secretary-general Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki last night which cited Muslim unity and Malay interests as being at the core of the nation’s political stability.

“The sentiments expressed may be understandable within the political and demographic context of Peninsular Malaysia, particularly in relation to the aspiration for greater Malay and Muslim unity.

“However, when we speak about political stability at the national level, we must also recognise the distinct history, social composition, and political realities of Sabah and Sarawak,” Salleh said in a Facebook post.

He said the aspiration for greater Malay and Muslim unity should not become the sole framework through which Malaysia’s national political stability is defined.

He stressed the importance of Sabah and Sarawak’s political traditions that have been shaped by inclusiveness, mutual respect and accommodation among the many ethnic groups, religions and cultures.

Salleh also called for better understanding of the safeguards and spirit of partnership embodied in the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).

“Sabah and Sarawak came together with Malaya and Singapore to form Malaysia in 1963. This history remains fundamental to how Sabahans and Sarawakians understand our place within the federation.

“It is equally important that our fellow Malaysians in Peninsular Malaysia understand and appreciate this history and the spirit of partnership upon which Malaysia was formed,” he said.

He said Malaysia’s long-term stability must be inclusive.

“It must recognise our diversity, uphold the spirit of federalism, and respect the distinct history, position and aspirations of Sabah and Sarawak,” he said.

“Our national leaders must understand and respect these foundations.”

Salleh said Malaysia will be strong when the spirit of partnership upon which it was formed continues to be honoured, and when every part of the federation feels respected, represented and equally invested in the shared future. - FMT