KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim rebuked opposition Members of Parliament in the Dewan Rakyat after dismissing claims that Malaysia had transferred 5,207 hectares of land to Indonesia, describing the allegations as inaccurate.
Anwar said several opposition MPs had been rude, dishonourable and insulting for jumping to conclusions without first seeking clarification on the Malaysia–Indonesia border alignment issue.
His remarks sparked a heated exchange in the House, with Anwar singling out Datuk Awang Solahuddin Hashim (PN–Pendang) over comments made on the matter.
"We should also take this opportunity to express our highest appreciation to officers from the Boundary Affairs Division, supported by the Topography Division, the Attorney-General's Chambers, the Mapping Division, the Ministry of Defence and the Armed Forces, who had to traverse dense jungles to ensure the maps were finalised," Anwar said.
"I hope that even if the opposition chooses not to express appreciation or thanks to the officers and the armed forces, they will at least refrain from issuing insulting and abusive statements.
"This includes Pendang. If you do not know, then ask. Do not resort to abuse. I have heard accusations that I have betrayed the country. This must be corrected."
At that point, Awang Solahuddin and Wan Ahmad Fayhsal Wan Ahmad Kamal (PN–Machang), along with several other MPs, rose to object as shouts from both sides of the House erupted. Chong Zhemin (PH–Kampar) stood to defend Anwar.
Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul warned MPs to maintain order and cautioned Chong before proceedings resumed, expressing displeasure over the unbecoming conduct, particularly as students were observing from the public gallery.
Opposition leader Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainuddin (PN–Larut) denied that opposition MPs had been rude, but raised questions over the border alignment following reports in Indonesian media on Jan 26.
It was alleged that Malaysia had handed over 5,207 hectares of land to Indonesia as compensation for three villages in the Nunukan area near the Sabah–Kalimantan border: Kampung Kabungalor, Kampung Lepaga and Kampung Tetagas.
Outstanding boundary problem (OBP) area along the Malaysia (Sabah)–Indonesia (North Kalimantan) border)
Outstanding boundary problem area along Pulau Sebatik.
Outstanding Boundary Problem (OBP) Area along Sungai Sinapad–Sungai Sesai (OBP 2700–3100).
Location of the three villages in the Outstanding Boundary Problem (OBP) area at Sungai Sinapad–Sungai Sesai (OBP 2700–3100).
Anwar said Malaysia remained in discussions with Jakarta to resolve longstanding land disputes along the Sabah–Kalimantan border, adding that both countries are bound by boundary agreements dating back more than a century and that the disputed areas have long been addressed within that framework.
"Matters affecting national interests, including borders, must be discussed prudently. I have no objection to opposition Members raising questions, but I strongly reject accusations and slander that we have betrayed the nation," Anwar said.
"I have presented facts and maps. It would be best to review them carefully. Some sections have been finalised, while others have not.
"We must safeguard our relationship with Indonesia, which has been very good since 1974. Negotiations continue at all levels, and cooperation between officials, from the lowest ranks to chief ministers, prime ministers and governments, has been excellent."
He added that differences of opinion should not lead to hasty judgments or statements that could offend Indonesian counterparts who are working to strengthen bilateral ties.
Anwar said once the matter is finalised at the government level, it will be referred to His Majesty and the Conference of Rulers in accordance with established procedures.
"The only issue is whether to table everything after all matters are resolved or to decide on them in stages," he said.
Main image: Prime Minister's Office.