Kuching: DAP Sarawak welcomes the Federal Government’s decision to return Rajang Area Security Command (RASCOM) sites in Sibu to Sarawak, describing the move as a meaningful step in restoring Sarawak’s rights and strengthening the spirit of the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).
Special Assistant to Stampin MP Chong Chieng Jen, Sim Kiat Leng, said that the return of 3,655 hectares of land previously under Federal control reflects the Federal Government’s continued commitment to devolving powers and restoring rights to Sarawak.
He said the Unity Government under Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has demonstrated a consistent, sincere and systematic approach in advancing the implementation of MA63.
“Previously, MA63 was often reduced to a political slogan during election campaigns, with limited concrete progress afterwards. Today, it is being translated into reality through institutional reforms and administrative measures, with commitments being fulfilled step by step,” he said.
Sim said the return of RASCOM sites, including the transfer of management of Bintulu Port, demonstrates that the Federal Government is progressively restoring powers and responsibilities that rightfully belong to Sarawak in accordance with the Federal Constitution and the principles of MA63.
However, he stressed that the restoration of powers should not be seen as the final goal, but as the beginning of a new phase focused on improving governance, public services and development outcomes for the people.
“The question is not only who holds the powers, but whether these powers can be translated into better services, more efficient administration and greater opportunities for Sarawakians,” he said.
Sim urged the Sarawak Government to fully utilise these restored powers to strengthen governance, improve public delivery and create greater economic opportunities.
“The true success of MA63 lies not merely in restoring powers to Sarawak, but in ensuring that Sarawakians enjoy a better quality of life, more balanced development and fairer distribution of resources,” he said.
He added that DAP Sarawak will continue to support policies consistent with the spirit of MA63 while monitoring outstanding matters to ensure every restored power delivers meaningful benefits to the people.
“MA63 can only be considered successful when the powers restored are transformed into real outcomes that genuinely improve the lives of Sarawakians,” Sim said.
