Confusion about the position of Sabah and Sarawak in Malaysia’s formation has evoked a general feeling of discontentment especially among Sabahans themselves.
And Dr Zaini Othman, a political analyst at Malaysia Sabah University (UMS), believe that the problem can be rectified only through education.
“Many say that Sabah joined after Malaysia was formed when this is not true. Sabah formed Malaysia. They joined the negotiation process prior to the formation and thus, Sabah can be said to be a greatly significant entity.
“If Sabah did not play any role then, Sabah would probably not be included in the present Malaysian constitution,” said Dr Zaini.
“How could Sabah had joined Malaysia when Malaysia doesn’t even exist yet then?”
Dr Zaini suggested that aspects of the formation of Malaysia should be emphasised as a national agenda for unity so that Sabahans would not feel so neglected.
“Any confusion on history can be solved through a complete and wholesome education,” said Dr Zaini.
Dr Zaini said that all parties should make an effort to understand history, from the 20-point agreement to the details on the formation of Malaysia.
“More emphasis must be given in schools so that all Malaysians can understand what is being said in the Malaysian Constitution and the importance of the Malaysia Agreement 1963.
The isolated feeling amongst the residence of Sabah can also be attributed to its geographical location which is a little further away from the Peninsular.
A random survey amongst the residence garnered a variety of responses – some were satisfied with what was currently available; there are also some who wants their voice to be heard by the leaders in Putrajaya.
Besides development, racial issues were also a main concern of the residents.
A Kadazan ethnic, Nadia Aima Holland, 30, admitted to feeling a little disappointed when the ethnicities in Sabah were not taken as seriously as the other three main races in the Peninsular which are the Malays, Chinese, and Indians.
“Being a Kadazan Dusun myself, I do feel quite isolated from the Peninsular Malaysia especially in the aspect of national unity.
"The Prime Minister’s effort to create unity among the different races is indeed a very good effort. However I see this prioritising more of the three main races in the Peninsular. We, the Dusun also want to feel as if we’re a part of this initiative,” said Nadia.
Dr Zaini said that the colourful diversity of races, culture, and religion among the Sabahans was an attractive part of Malaysia. However, he also warned that it was not right to use race, culture and religion as a tool to divide the people.
“We should not separate our community into majority and minority groups. In accordance to the concept of Malaysia, it is more accurate to say that the Malaysians are of a pluralistic society that is very diverse,” said Dr Zaini.
Dr Zaini insisted that the nation's diversity is the country’s asset and should be the focus of the country’s strength.
Arfa Yunus
Mon Sep 16 2013
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