Sabah, Sarawak will always be part of Malaysia: Zahid

KUALA LUMPUR: Sabah and Sarawak will always remain as a part of Malaysia, said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

Launching the book, Berpisah Tiada (Inseparable), written by Speaker Tan Sri Pandikar Amin Mulia yesterday, Ahmad Zahid said he was confident any differences between the federal government and the two states could be resolved.

“Fifty-four years ago, our leaders had wished for a united Malaysia ... the togetherness of the people from the three places – Malaya, Sabah and Sarawak.

“Although we are different, we must be united in our thinking. Don’t use some biased research to manipulate facts to the point of causing discomfort among the people,” Ahmad Zahid said.

He said the book aims to explain issues affecting the people in Sabah and Sarawak, as well as their politics and attitudes towards Peninsular Malaysia.

“We must be big-hearted and accept the fact that the power lies with the people. They get to decide, so leave it to them. Do not poison their minds,” he said.

Pandikar said the book is meant to dispel the notion that the rights of Sabahans were being eroded.

“I don’t want to be remembered by the next generation as an individual who is able to do an analysis but failed to do so.

“I was accused of taking bribes because of my opinions. But I want to say this, I will debate with anyone on Sabah. Name your place and name your time, I’ll be there.”