Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Sabah and Sarawak Affairs) Datuk Mustapha Sakmud has expressed support for the idea of holding public town hall sessions to discuss issues related to the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), saying open dialogue would be beneficial despite differing opinions.
He said such engagements could help foster understanding and potentially bridge gaps between stakeholders with varying views, adding that finding common ground remained the ultimate goal, according to Bernama.
Mustapha noted encouraging public response to the newly launched MA63 dashboard on the ministry’s official website, which has attracted more than 2,000 views within its first three days. The platform provides updated information on MA63-related matters and is intended to enhance transparency and public awareness.
Speaking in Kota Kinabalu during the Kota Kinabalu PKR Chinese New Year celebration, he said he recently held discussions with leaders of the Sabah Law Society, including its former president Roger Chin, describing the meeting as positive and constructive.
On the progress of MA63 negotiations, Mustapha said 13 issues have been fully resolved, while 16 others are still under discussion. One additional matter has been addressed on an interim basis through the allocation of a RM600 million special grant to Sabah and Sarawak.
He added that a technical committee is scheduled to convene later this month, with the outcomes to be presented to the main council chaired by the prime minister for further consideration.
