Resolve one-third formula before expanding seats, minister urges

The minister emphasised that further discussions are needed to determine a suitable methodology for implementing the one-third formula, which has been a long-standing point of contention between the two East Malaysian states and Kuala Lumpur.

Under the Malaysia Agreement 1963, the formula was designed to ensure that East Malaysian states maintain a one-third representation in Parliament relative to Peninsular Malaysia. However, demographic changes and population growth have complicated its application in recent years.

The minister's remarks come amid ongoing negotiations between Sarawak, Sabah and the federal government over parliamentary redistribution. Both states have called for increased seats to reflect their growing populations, but officials say the one-third formula must be clarified first to avoid future disputes.

State and federal authorities are expected to convene further talks to resolve the technical and constitutional aspects of the formula before any seat allocation changes are formally implemented.

The issue remains sensitive given its implications for the political balance between East and West Malaysia, and both states have indicated they will not proceed without a clear resolution.