Politics · Malaysia Bureau
Sabah, Sarawak to gain larger share of parliamentary representation
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has pledged increased parliamentary seats for Sabah and Sarawak as part of broader efforts to advance the MA63 constitutional framework that underpins the two states' position within Malaysia.
LSN Malaysia ·
KOTA KINABALU — The federal government is moving forward with plans to enhance the political representation of Sabah and Sarawak in Parliament, with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim confirming the two East Malaysian states will receive a larger proportion of legislative seats.
The commitment represents a significant development in the long-standing push to strengthen provisions under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), the foundational document governing Sabah and Sarawak's relationship with the federation. The initiative aims to address longstanding concerns about the states' parliamentary representation relative to their geographic size and population.
Anwar's announcement underscores the federal government's recognition of the importance of MA63 to East Malaysian interests. The agreement has been central to discussions about resource distribution, autonomy, and political representation since Malaysian independence in 1963.
The proposed increase in parliamentary seats forms part of a broader constitutional review process intended to enhance the standing of both states within Malaysia's federal structure. While specific details regarding the magnitude of seat allocation remain to be finalised, the pledge signals the government's commitment to advancing negotiations on constitutional matters affecting Sabah and Sarawak.