4 days ago
Shafie amended Constitution for good reason
Published on: Sunday, July 27, 2025
Published on: Sun, Jul 27, 2025 Text Size: I refer to 'PBS: JKDM and Ambalat among the low points' (DE July 14) Datuk Joniston Bangkuai, Information Chief of PBS, said the slogan 'Rumah Kita, Kita Jaga' is not a signal of hostility towards the Federal Government, but to inspire local ownership in shaping Sabah's future and to empower local leadership and decision-making. He took aim at decisions made by the Federal Government without consulting the Sabah Government, among others, the federal announcement on the joint oil and gas development in Ambalat waters. Datuk Seri Shafie Apdal as Chief Minister had amended the Sabah Land Ordinance in November 2018 in the State Assembly, to refine the definition of land in Sabah to include the area of the continental shelf as stated in the North Borneo (Alteration of Boundaries) Order in Council 1954. This is to ensure protection of Sabah's rightful territories should there be any dispute in the future. The amendment is in line with the existing provisions under the MA63 and Article 1(3) of the federal constitution which provides that the territories of any State are territories comprised therein immediately before Malaysia Day. Ambalat waters is within the boundaries stated in the Order in Council 1954. It is constitutionally wrong of the Federal Government to infringe on Sabah's property (the Ambalat waters) without consultation with the Sabah Government. Dr Chong Eng Leong The views expressed here are the views of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of the Daily Express. If you have something to share, write to us at: [email protected]
