KUCHING: Kota Sentosa Assemblyman Wilfred Yap has expressed deep appreciation to Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Pehin Sri Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar for his recent address at the Universiti Teknologi Sarawak (UTS) Convocation, describing it as a powerful reminder of Sarawak’s identity and the need to safeguard its constitutional rights.
“As Sarawakians, we must express our heartfelt thanks and gratitude to Tun Wan Junaidi for repeatedly reminding us to defend our rights under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) and for his visionary leadership in securing the 2021 Federal Constitution amendment that restored the recognition of Sarawak and Sabah as equal partners in the formation of Malaysia,” Yap said.
He said the amendment was a historic and constitutional victory that corrected decades of imbalance and reaffirmed Sarawak’s legal entitlement to self-governance, resources, and identity.
“As Kota Sentosa Assemblyman, I fully echo Tun Wan Junaidi’s call for unity in defending Sarawak’s rights through education, competence, and integrity. We must nurture a generation that understands both the constitutional foundation and the moral responsibility of being Sarawakians to develop our state with pride, honesty, and wisdom,” he added.
Yap also noted that while many parties often speak about MA63, few have shown the same level of genuine commitment as the GPS Government.
“We have yet to hear a clear and consistent stand from DAP Sarawak on critical issues such as education autonomy and health autonomy, which are essential to improving the daily lives of our people. These are not partisan demands but the very instruments needed to make MA63’s promises meaningful on the ground,” he said.
Yap urged young graduates, especially from Kota Sentosa, to use their knowledge and skills not just to find jobs but to serve a greater purpose in building Sarawak’s future.
“Today, as Sarawak advances into a new era of digital economy, green energy, and industrial innovation, our youth hold the key to shaping that journey. Let us all stand united as one Sarawakian family to defend our rights, nurture our talents, and move our beloved state forward toward a Sarawak that is truly maju dan makmur,” he said.
By Connie Chieng