KUCHING, 6 November: GPS is a Sarawak-based party that understands the history and aspirations of the original spirit of the formation of Malaysia.
With the support and full mandate of the people, the coalition will be able to restore and defend the rights and privileges of Sarawak for the sake of the dignity of its people.
According to its chairman, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, committed and pledges in its newly launched manifesto is to ensure the voice of Sarawak and demands in the Special Council on the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) are fulfilled.
“We also pledge to ensure the autonomy of immigration Sarawak’s rights to enforce state laws in accordance with the Federal Constitution, Sarawak’s rights to the continental shelf, and Sarawak’s sovereignty over the seabed and subsoil as well as its natural resources are not compromised.
“This includes by claiming Sarawak rights that have been eroded such as revenue on stamp duty over land and demand that the Review of Special Grants under Article 112D of the Federal Constitution which has been agreed upon in principle be completed immediately,” he said during the launching of the GPS manifesto at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) here, tonight.
With pledges to ensure the implementation of the Commercial Settlement Agreement between Petronas and Sarawak are adhered for Sarawak to assume a fairer share as a source of new revenue for Sarawak’s development agenda.
At the same time, the demands on the increase of parliamentary seats for Sarawak in line with the original spirit of MA63 and the IGC Report during the formation of Malaysia, shall be pursued.
“We would also like to ensure that more Sarawakians fill key positions in the Sarawak Federal Public Service in line with the spirit of Borneonisation.
“And demand that the Federal Government devolve including on administrative powers in line with Sarawak’s demands under the Special Council on MA63,” he added.
Meanwhile, the coalition reassured its commitment in defending the rights of Sarawakians in accordance with the principle of ‘Sarawak First’ for the well-being and the future.
“Guarantee inclusive and equal rights for the people of Sarawak in the economic, political, and social fields as well as freedom of their practicing their respective religions and customers while allowing other religions in Sarawak to use the word ‘Allah’.
“Preserving the history, culture, heritage, and beliefs of various races by encouraging the organisation of cultural forums and symposiums,” said Abang Johari.
Abang Johari said that the coalition will strengthen religious institutions for all communities in Sarawak through the Sarawak Islamic Council and the Unit for Other Religions (UNIFOR) as well as strengthen judicial institutions for all communities in Sarawak such as the Syariah Court and the Bumiputera Court.
“Facilitating and expediting the granting of citizenship to eligible Sarawakian children,” he noted. – TVS
