Prime Minister Holds Strategic Talks with Sabah and Sarawak Leaders on National Development

KUALA LUMPUR, July 14— Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim held a high-level meeting with Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Dr Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Abang Openg and Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor to discuss key matters of mutual interest, particularly those aimed at strengthening ties and accelerating development across East Malaysia.

The meeting, which underscored the government’s commitment to inclusive national progress, focused on enhancing cooperation between the Federal Government and the State Governments of Sabah and Sarawak.

In a statement following the meeting, Prime Minister Anwar emphasized the critical importance of maintaining close ties and strategic collaboration between federal and state administrations to ensure that national development is both balanced and inclusive.

“I have always stressed the importance of strong, strategic relationships between the Federal Government and the State Governments, especially Sabah and Sarawak,” Anwar said.

“This cooperation will contribute significantly toward the success of the national agenda, which is centered on inclusive and equitable development for the benefit of all Malaysians,” he added.

While specific topics discussed were not disclosed, sources indicate that the meeting included deliberations on infrastructure development, resource management, regional autonomy, and economic empowerment initiatives tailored to the unique needs of East Malaysian states.

Both Sabah and Sarawak have been given greater attention in national policymaking under the current administration, with ongoing efforts to fulfill commitments under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), which outlines special rights and autonomy for the two states.

Analysts see the meeting as a continuation of the government’s pledge to narrow regional disparities and ensure that development in Sabah and Sarawak keeps pace with Peninsular Malaysia.

The leaders are expected to continue their dialogue on a regular basis to follow up on implementation efforts and to ensure that federal-state collaboration remains strong in driving forward Malaysia’s national development vision.