KUCHING: The Federal Government’s decision to channel substantial allocations and fulfil several demands under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) for Sarawak is not the result of pressure or threats but rather stems from the principles of justice and the responsibility of fair governance for all Malaysians.

Prime Minister, Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim dismissed claims emerging from Peninsular Malaysia alleging that he had been forced or threatened into giving Sarawak preferential treatment in order to maintain his position.

According to him, there are also a handful of elites in Sarawak accusing Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg and his Cabinet of being seemingly weak during negotiations with the Federal Government.

“These individuals are making baseless accusations without considering the facts, causing unnecessary anxiety among the people,” he said during the 2025 Sarawak-Level Gawai Dayak Celebration Dinner held at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) on Sunday.

Further elaborating, Dato’ Seri Anwar emphasised that negotiations are never easy, but if one upholds the principle that every region must progress, and no area whether urban, suburban, rural or interior should be left behind, then such a spirit must be embraced regardless of race or state.

“That is why, in the national budget, I clearly stated our decision to provide a large allocation to our friends in Sarawak, as well as to underprivileged states in Peninsular Malaysia.

“This is not due to threats, but because it is our responsibility as a fair government to ensure the well-being of all,” he added.

He also expressed that it is inappropriate for any party to attack the Sarawak leadership as though the state government is not firm in defending its people’s rights.

On the contrary, he acknowledged that Sarawak leaders have been firm and vocal in voicing the aspirations of Sarawakians.

“I know this very well as I personally led the final rounds of negotiations, which were tough, as Sarawak ‘commanders’ were steadfast.

“But I understand, they are carrying the voices and long-standing grievances of a people who have felt marginalised for far too long,” he said. -UKASnews