Kuala Lumpur: Sipitang Member of Parliament Datuk Matbali Musah urged Putrajaya to immediately fulfil what has already been enshrined in the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) without further delay.
He said what remains now is the political will to implement them as the courts have already made their decisions and interpretations, and the laws have provided sufficient room.
“We are not asking for the moon and stars, only to realise what is stated in MA63, without more delays,” he said while debating the 2026 Budget in the Dewan Rakyat, referring to the Prime Minister’s briefing on Oct 22 regarding the Madani Government’s position on Sabah’s special grants and the implementation of MA63.
While expressing appreciation and gratitude to the Prime Minister for the clarification, he said it reflected the Federal Government’s seriousness in understanding the pulse of the Sabah people, who have long awaited follow-up action on the historic agreement.
Matbali said compared the development of major cities in Peninsular Malaysia which are connected by high-speed rail and smooth six-lane highways stretching from north to south, in Sabah people still rely on potholed village roads.
“Sabah isrich in natural resources, yet its people remain poor in their own land,” he said.
He said when the people question this disparity, their criticism is aimed at the present governments — the GRS-PH state government and the Madani administration in Putrajaya.
Matbali called on both the state and federal governments to work hand in hand in developing Sabah.
“This is not about who has done more or who holds more power, but about who truly has the people’s heart.
“We no longer want to be the subject of political jokes — being called backward or incapable of governing. How can one govern effectively without full authority? It’s like steering a ship without a rudder,” he said.
Matbali urged all parties to collectively uphold their responsibilities as outlined in MA63 so that it does not become a target of ridicule by political opponents.
“Let us carry out this trust sincerely and earnestly so the people can see that the current government is truly genuine.
“Do not let MA63 become merely a campaign tune during elections — only to fade into silence once the season is over,” he said.