Malaysia to amend constitution to increase parliamentary seats in Sabah, Sarawak

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has announced that the government intends to amend the Malaysian Constitution to expand parliamentary representation for Sabah and Sarawak, the two East Malaysian states that joined the federation in 1963.

The constitutional amendments are designed to align with the provisions and principles outlined in the Malaysia Agreement 1963, the founding document that established the federation. The agreement has long been cited as a cornerstone of the federal arrangement governing the relationship between the federal government and the two East Malaysian states.

The proposal reflects the government's commitment to addressing longstanding considerations regarding equitable representation in Parliament for Sabah and Sarawak. Both states have historically raised concerns about their parliamentary seat allocation relative to their populations and constitutional entitlements.

Constitutional amendments in Malaysia require approval from both the federal government and the affected state legislatures, as well as the necessary parliamentary supermajority. The initiative is expected to form part of broader discussions on strengthening federalism and addressing regional concerns within the Malaysian federation.

Details regarding the specific number of additional seats to be allocated and the timeline for implementing the amendments have not yet been disclosed.