Parti Solidariti Tanahairku (STAR) has urged the Malaysian government to learn from Sarawak’s successful economic management rather than expecting the Borneo state to support other financially struggling regions. This reaction followed a suggestion by former Prime Minister Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad that as a high-income territory, Sarawak could assist less prosperous states in Malaysia.
Datuk Kenny Chua, STAR's deputy president, expressed surprise at Dr. Mahathir’s comments, which he noted have sparked frustration among people in Sarawak and Sabah. Chua emphasized that it is the federal government's responsibility to uplift all states, especially those that face economic challenges. "Instead of looking to Sarawak for financial aid, Putrajaya should study Sarawak’s model as a path toward becoming a high-income nation," he stated.
Chua highlighted that Sarawak’s political stability has been central to its economic achievements and suggested that Malaysia could benefit from reducing internal political conflict and focusing on stability. He argued that ending power struggles and addressing issues of extremism related to race and religion would help foster national unity, which is essential for economic growth.
“These divisive issues are like a disease, derailing progress and posing a threat to both political and economic stability,” he said. He added that at its core, economic prosperity is the ultimate goal for Malaysians, who seek secure livelihoods and a stable future for their families. To this end, Chua suggested the federal government should look to the racial and religious harmony maintained by Sabah and Sarawak as examples to follow.
Sabah itself has started to implement Sarawak’s approach, aiming for political unity under the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) government after years of division. Chua expressed hopes that Sabahans would recognize the importance of political stability in driving economic growth rather than getting drawn into political conflicts. “When we are as politically united as Sarawak, we can expect economic growth that could raise Sabah to high-income status. But achieving this requires that we reclaim control over our political future,” he explained.
Chua further urged Dr. Mahathir to focus on empowering Sabah and Sarawak by pressing the federal government to honor the Malaysia Agreement 1963. This agreement, fundamental to Sabah and Sarawak’s union with Malaysia, includes provisions aimed at safeguarding their rights and autonomy. "With his vast experience as a former Prime Minister, Dr. Mahathir understands the federal obligations toward Sabah and Sarawak," Chua noted.
Using a metaphor to underscore his point, Chua said, "If you have two geese that lay golden eggs, you care for them rather than exploiting them. Sarawak and Sabah are crucial to Malaysia’s wealth, and their success benefits everyone."
Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg also commented, pointing out that while Sarawak has achieved high-income status, much work remains to improve household incomes and further develop rural areas. He reiterated that it is the federal government’s duty to support economically disadvantaged regions in the country, emphasizing that Sarawak’s achievements have come from careful economic planning and strong governance.
Information Source: Malay Mail
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