Sabah, Putrajaya should build on common ground, says ex-CM Salleh

The former chief minister of Sabah has called for renewed emphasis on collaboration between the state and federal authorities, even as questions surrounding MA63 and Sabah's constitutional entitlements remain unresolved.

Salleh said both Sabah and Putrajaya should concentrate on identifying opportunities to strengthen the state's economic foundation and expand livelihood prospects for residents. He underscored that while historical agreements and state prerogatives deserve continued attention, the relationship between the two levels of government need not be defined solely by contentious issues.

The remarks reflect a pragmatic approach that acknowledges the importance of Malaysia Agreement 1963 and Sabah's reserved powers, yet advocates for forward-looking engagement. Salleh suggested that constructive dialogue on economic development, infrastructure, and social programmes could yield tangible benefits for Sabahans.

His position comes as Sabah continues to navigate complex constitutional matters while pursuing growth initiatives at the state level. The call for balanced focus—on both protecting state interests and building prosperity—represents a middle ground in ongoing discussions about Sabah's place within Malaysia's federal structure.