Sabah must have say in Ambalat plans: Wetrom
Published on: Tue, Jul 08, 2025
By: Amir Anuar Text Size: The Kota Marudu Member of Parliament said the State Government needs to represent Sabahans and possibly provide advice to the Prime Minister in discussions between the Malaysian and Indonesian governments. TAWAU: Parti Kesejahteraan Demokratik Masyarakat (KDM) Deputy President II Datuk Wetrom Bahanda said the Federal Government cannot ignore Sabahan perspectives when making decisions involving the State's interests, particularly regarding the Ambalat issue. He believes the State Government's top leadership views must also not be disregarded in such matters. 'Whatever is done, Sabah's top leadership must be given space to share opinions and suggestions to the Federal Government because the State Government represents all the people,' he said on Sunday regarding Malaysia and Indonesia's proposal to jointly develop economic potential in the ND6 and ND7 blocks, or Ambalat, in the Sulawesi Sea. The Kota Marudu Member of Parliament said the State Government needs to represent Sabahans and possibly provide advice to the Prime Minister in discussions between the Malaysian and Indonesian governments. 'But if such matters (decision-making processes) are ignored, this development could become something unfavourable in national and state leadership,' he said. While discussions between Malaysia and Indonesia are reportedly still in early stages, the Bandau Assemblyman believes the actual situation needs transparent clarification. 'Any decision cannot be taken without the views and advice of Sabah leaders or people, including at the State Legislative Assembly and Parliament levels. 'The need to ensure Sabah's voice is heard in the decision-making process is important to safeguard the state's and its people's interests,' he said. He said that to his knowledge, Ambalat's status remains a bilateral issue between the two countries that is unresolved and still requires discussion. He believes discussions on related issues should also be brought to the attention of and decided among the 73 state assemblymen at the State level. 'If it involves State's interests, this is the level that should make determinations and also discuss appropriate actions that can be taken,' he said. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available.
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