KOTA KINABALU: Malaysia’s political stability must be built on inclusiveness and reflect the spirit of partnership upon which the Federation was formed, said Sabah UMNO Treasurer Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Salleh Said Keruak.
He said while the aspiration for greater Malay and Muslim unity was understandable within the political and demographic context of Peninsular Malaysia, it should not become the sole framework for defining national political stability.
“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,” he said in his facebook social media posting today.
Salleh was commenting on Item 4 of the statement issued by UMNO Supreme Council member and Secretary-General Datuk Dr Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki on behalf of the party’s Supreme Council yesterday.
He said Sabah and Sarawak were highly diverse societies comprising various ethnic groups, religions and cultures, and their political traditions had consequently been shaped by inclusiveness, mutual respect and accommodation among different communities.
He also stressed that the formation of Malaysia in 1963 provided an important historical context that should not be overlooked.
“Sabah and Sarawak came together with Malaya and Singapore to form Malaysia in 1963, based on agreements, safeguards and a spirit of partnership embodied in the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).
“This history remains fundamental to how Sabahans and Sarawakians understand our place within the Federation,” he said.
Salleh said it was equally important for Malaysians in Peninsular Malaysia to understand and appreciate the historical context and spirit of partnership upon which Malaysia was formed.
He said the aspiration for greater Malay and Muslim unity should be respected within its appropriate context, but Malaysia’s long-term stability must take into account the country’s diversity and federal structure.
“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.
With Malaysia commemorating National Day on Aug 31 and Malaysia Day on Sept 16, Salleh said the occasion should serve as an opportunity for Malaysians to reflect not only on what was being celebrated, but also on the historical foundations that brought the country together.
“Our national leaders must understand and respect these foundations.
“Malaysia will remain 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 our shared future,” he said.-pr/BNN
