Kota Kinabalu: Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Sabah and Sarawak Affairs) Datuk Mustapha Sakmud has welcomed public town hall engagements on the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), saying open discussion is important even when parties hold differing views, expressing hope that stakeholders can reach a common meeting point.
Speaking to reporters after attending a Chinese New Year celebration hosted by PKR Kota Kinabalu Chief and Nominated Assemblywoman Grace Lee Li Mei at the division office here on Sunday, Mustapha said he recently met Sabah Law Society (SLS) representatives, including past president Datuk Roger Chin, to exchange views on MA63-related matters.
“Even though we hold differing views, the discussion was good. I understand the concerns raised and I explained the federal government’s policies and principles. We hope to find a point of agreement,” he said.
He stressed that the federal government remains open to engagement and has no issue with organisations holding town halls or public consultations on MA63.
“I welcome any engagement sessions. That is a good thing. I will also continue meeting various bodies to gather input that can be used in future negotiations,” he added.
Mustapha said progress on MA63 implementation continues through a two-tier committee structure.
He said a technical committee chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof will meet this month, with outcomes to be escalated to the main MA63 Implementation Action Council chaired by the Prime Minister.
Mustapha reiterated that 13 MA63 matters have been resolved so far, while 16 remain under negotiation. One issue, he said, has been settled on an interim basis through a RM600 million special grant currently channelled to Sabah and Sarawak.
He said ongoing negotiations between the federal and state governments are proceeding well, including discussions on the much-anticipated 40 per cent revenue formula.
“I am personally monitoring this closely and have met with agencies including the Finance Ministry and the Attorney General’s Chambers to review developments,” he said.
Mustapha also highlighted encouraging public response to the newly launched MA63 dashboard, which tracks implementation progress.
He said more than 2,000 users accessed the dashboard within the first three days of its launch, and the figure is expected to continue rising as updates are added.
He added that future developments from committee meetings will be reflected on the dashboard to ensure transparency.
Mustapha called for stronger unity among Malaysia’s multi-ethnic and multi-religious communities, and urged continued commitment to public service and welfare.
He also thanked the federal government for extending financial assistance to Malaysians aged 18 and above though SARA today (Monday) saying the aid would help recipients prepare for upcoming festivities.
