KUCHING (Nov 20): Sarawak’s Premier, Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg, has reaffirmed the state’s firm stance on its rights to the continental shelf within its boundaries. Addressing the Sarawak Legislative Assembly today, he declared these rights as inalienable and non-negotiable.
Abang Johari highlighted that Sarawak’s seabed and subsoil, classified as Crown land under the Land Code of 1958, were transferred to the Sarawak government upon Malaysia’s formation in 1963. This transfer is supported by Article 47(2) of the Sarawak State Constitution, as outlined in the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).
“The boundaries of Sarawak, protected under Article 2 of the Federal Constitution, cannot be altered without the consent of the State Legislature. This ensures the state’s territorial integrity,” he said.
He also pointed out that the Federal Government has no proprietary rights over Sarawak’s continental shelf or its oil and gas resources. These rights, he explained, were not vested in the Federation by the Malaysia Act of 1963 or MA63.
“The Continental Shelf (Amendment) Act 2009 explicitly safeguards Sarawak’s rights over its seabed and subsoil. This alignment of federal legislation with Sarawak’s sovereignty ensures our continued control over these resources,” Abang Johari said.
He further stressed that Sarawak’s legislative authority over oil and gas resources is governed by the Oil Mining Ordinance 1958 and the Distribution of Gas Ordinance 2016. All entities engaging in resource exploration and extraction must comply with these laws.
“Sarawak’s sovereign rights over its land, resources, and continental shelf are entrenched in the MA63, State Constitution, and Federal Constitution. These rights are constitutionally guaranteed, and Sarawak will continue to defend them resolutely,” he asserted.
The Premier’s remarks underscore Sarawak’s commitment to protecting its territorial sovereignty and ensuring compliance with its laws, solidifying the state’s rightful claim to its resources.