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PRIME MINISTER Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has underscored the importance of deepening ties between the federal government and the state of Sabah, calling for the relationship to be built on mutual trust and guided by a sense of responsibility rather than political considerations.
Following a meeting with Sabah Pakatan Harapan (PH) leaders on Thursday evening, Anwar, who also holds the Finance portfolio, reaffirmed Putrajaya’s commitment to working closely with the state to enhance development outcomes and protect the well-being of its citizens.
“The federal government has long prioritised Sabah’s needs. This isn’t about state elections, it’s about responsibility,” he told reporters.
He pointed to neighbouring Sarawak as an example of effective federal–state cooperation yielding tangible benefits, expressing hope that Sabah would emulate that model.
Present at the meeting were Sabah PH chairman Datuk Ewon Benedick—who also leads the United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (UPKO)—alongside PKR Sabah State Leadership Council chairman Datuk Mustapha Sakmu and Sabah DAP chairman Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe.
Anwar highlighted progress made under his administration concerning the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), referencing a federal-level committee chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof and comprising Sabah and Sarawak ministers.
“As a result of that determination, nine key matters which were delayed for decades have been successfully resolved, and even more complex issues such as those concerning oil affairs have been addressed,” he said.
“So we propose the same principle so that more assured revenue for Sabah can be achieved. Not misused – for me, continuity and governance are the priorities, not leaders scrambling for wealth for themselves. But to use the opportunity to defend the fate of the people. This is the government that must be upheld and supported for our people.”
The Prime Minister also cited the federal administration’s resolve in defending Sabah’s sovereignty, particularly in the successful repulsion of claims by the Sulu group.
“We gave our full commitment in the Cabinet meeting, and even in the recent ASEAN summit, we managed to ensure that Sabah’s issues are always prioritised,” he said.
When questioned on PH’s strategy ahead of the forthcoming Sabah State Election (PRN), Anwar—who also chairs PH—indicated that Sabah’s PH leadership was engaged in ongoing discussions with Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) and Sabah Barisan Nasional (BN).
“Let Sabah PH decide; they are negotiating with GRS and negotiating with Sabah BN. These Sabah PH leaders will come forward and coordinate. Right now, it seems that all meetings are progressing, and we don’t anticipate any problems,” he added.
PM Salutes Team Malaysia for Successful Hosting of 46th ASEAN Summit
Meanwhile, Anwar expressed his heartfelt appreciation to all who contributed to the success of the 46th ASEAN Summit, emphasising that the achievement belongs not to any individual but to the collective effort of a committed and unified team.
“My deepest appreciation and salute go to everyone involved in making the 46th ASEAN Summit a success,” Anwar said in a statement.
“This success is not the work of one person, but the result of a collective effort that reflects the strength of teamwork. This is the true face of Malaysia MADANI—united in spirit and purpose for the nation we hold dear.”
“The MADANI government will continue to move forward, even against the tide and in the face of adversity, with a firm resolve to serve with full dedication. We do not choose to retreat, much less to boast merely of name or rank,” he said.
Calling on all civil servants and Malaysians to serve with sincerity and humility, Anwar reminded the nation that the country’s destiny lies in the hands of its people.
“Continue to serve with sincerity and humility. This country belongs to all of us. The future of Malaysia depends on the strength of our values, the resolve of our will, and the unity of our determination,” he added. - May 30, 2025