Kota Kinabalu: Young Sabahans should have a clearer understanding of the significance of Aug 31, 1963, just as Malaysians are familiar with Malaya’s independence on Aug 31, 1957, said Tamparuli PBS Division Chief Bonaventure Boniface (pic).Bonaventure, who is also, PBS Central Information Assistant, said any lack of understanding among the younger generation should not be blamed on them but should prompt questions over whether Sabah and Sarawak have been given sufficient space in the national historical narrative.
He said Aug 31, 1963 marked the end of British colonial administration in what was then North Borneo and Sabah’s attainment of self-government, followed 16 days later by the formation of Malaysia on Sept 16 involving Sabah, Malaya, Sarawak and Singapore.
Bonaventure said understanding this historical sequence was important in explaining why the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), State rights, administrative powers and Sabah’s position within the Federation continue to resonate with Sabahans, adding that discussions on MA63 should not automatically be regarded as contrary to national unity.
“Aug 31, 1957, Aug 31, 1963 and Sept 16, 1963 each carry their own historical context. We do not need to choose one and deny the others,” he said, adding that understanding the different historical journeys that led to Malaysia’s formation could strengthen rather than weaken the country.
