THE Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), which has long been a contentious issue, should be included as a history subject in the national education curriculum, a PKR delegate from Sabah said.  

Antakor Rasam said all citizens should know about MA63, a legal instrument signed in 1963 that led to the formation of the Federation of Malaysia.  

“It is a very big matter, where the documents of the formation of a nation should be taught (in schools) and studied by all Malaysians.  

“I understand that my friends in the peninsula, when coming to Sabah, they use passport but when spending they still use ringgit. Because we don’t study (why). 

“Therefore, I would like to suggest that MA63 be included in the national education curriculum,” Rasam said while delivering his debate speech at the party’s 17th annual congress today at Putrajaya.  

Under the Malaysia Agreement of 1963, Sabah and Sarawak are equal partners to the former Federation of Malaya.  

Rasam said previously people were afraid of being vocal about MA63 due to fear of being detained under the now-repealed Internal Security Act. 

Rasam said it was key for all Malaysians to understand the basis of the formation of Malaysia.  

“Without this MA63 agreement, there is no Malaysia. So, with that, it should be understood that MA63 is the key to Malaysia’s existence. 

“Ignoring MA63 means wanting to erase Malaysia from the world map,” he said to rapturous applause.  

Despite the formation of Malaysia 60 years ago, Rasam said Sabah and Sarawak were still left behind.  

“Sabah and Sarawak are rich with natural resources but still number two and three poorest (states) in Malaysia, with the highest poverty rate,” he said.  

“Our roads in Sabah are as beautiful as the moon. Even our train is strong, despite it being the same from then till now. 

“That’s why the people of Sabah and Sarawak are always raising the MA63 issue,” he said.  

Rasam also added that it should not be the obligation of only Sabah and Sarawak to host the annual Malaysia Day event but called on states in the peninsula to also do so.  

“Let’s live and celebrate our Independence Day and Malaysia Day together.  

“Usually, Kota Kinabalu and Kuching are the only hosts of Malaysia Day.  

“Kota Kinabalu… Kuching… Repeat… As if this Malaysia is only for Sabah and Sarawak,” he said. – November 26, 2023.