MA63: Continue Discussions, Find Common Ground – Fadillah

KOTA KINABALU, Sept 11 (Bernama) -- Discussions on the implementation of the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) must continue in a spirit of openness, mutual respect and the search for common ground, said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof.

Fadillah, who is also the chairman of the Technical Committee for the Malaysia Agreement 1963 Implementation Action Council (MTPMA63), said differences of opinion on certain matters are normal in the negotiation process.

"However, what is important is that we continue discussions to find common ground," he said in a post on his Facebook page today.

Earlier this morning, Fadillah attended the MTPMA63 meeting online from Putrajaya. The meeting was chaired by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

Also present were Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor, Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg and Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Mustapha Sakmud.

Fadillah also said the MTPMA63 Technical Committee had convened twice this year, on March 2 and Aug 3, to examine various matters and legal issues related to the agreement.

He said any matters that had not been agreed at the technical level would be brought to the MTPMA63 meeting for joint consideration, while policy-related issues would be submitted to the Cabinet in accordance with the appropriate procedures.

Fadillah also expressed his appreciation to Anwar, the leadership of the Sabah and Sarawak state governments, and all parties for their continued commitment to implementing MA63.

"In conjunction with the 63rd Malaysia Day on Sept 16, this spirit of togetherness and consensus should continue to serve as the foundation for our efforts to strengthen relations between the Federal Government, Sabah and Sarawak," he said.

-- BERNAMA