Seat increase must uphold MA63, strengthen Sarawak's representation, says Kota Sentosa rep
Yap reiterates that the people of Sarawak deserve transparency and clarity in the process, not decisions made behind closed doors. – Photo by Chimon Upon
KUCHING (June 27): Kota Sentosa assemblyman Wilfred Yap has called for any move to increase Sarawak's state or parliamentary seats to be guided by the principle of 'Sarawak First' and grounded in the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).
He stressed that such measures must not be reduced to a 'mere numbers game' but should instead reflect a sincere commitment to strengthening Sarawak's voice in Parliament and ensuring fair and accurate representation of its people.
'This cannot be just a numbers game. It must be a step towards strengthening Sarawak's voice in Parliament and ensuring our people are more fairly and accurately represented,' he said in a statement.
He reiterated that the people of Sarawak deserve transparency and clarity in the process, not decisions made behind closed doors.
'Sarawak must come first in any seat increase – uphold MA63 and protect our future,' he asserted.
Yap, a lawyer by training, made these remarks ahead of the one-day special sitting of the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly (DUN) slated for July 7.
Although the official agenda has yet to be announced, speculation suggests that the session may address issues of redelineation or increasing the number of seats at the state or parliamentary level.
Yap emphasised that any changes made in this regard must aim to uphold Sarawak's constitutional rights and enhance its representation within the Federation.
'Let's not forget that the last seat increase in 2015 involved proper legal channels through the Election Commission and constitutional amendments.
'We must insist on the same level of accountability this time,' said the Sarawak United People's Party (SUPP) Kota Sentosa branch chairman.
Yap further stressed the need to rebalance electoral representation in response to rapid urban population growth, particularly in areas like Kota Sentosa.
'Neglecting urban constituencies risks marginalizing large segments of Sarawak's population,' he cautioned.
'Every Sarawakian deserves to have their voice heard. Fair representation is not only a constitutional matter – it is a matter of justice and equity for our people,' he emphasised.
Calling for unity across political lines, Yap urged all parties -regardless of affiliation – to prioritise Sarawak's rights and autonomy.
'If this special sitting is indeed about reinforcing our place under MA63, then it is a step in the right direction and deserves full public support.
'Our collective mission must be to build a stronger, more empowered Sarawak,' he said.
Reaffirming his unwavering stand, Yap said: 'I will always speak up for what matters to Sarawakians- whether it's MA63, fair representation, or the development of our state.
'The people of Sarawak must always come first. Let us remain vigilant, united, and committed to a better future.'
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