KUCHING: Kota Sentosa Assemblyman Wilfred Yap expressed his full and unequivocal support for the Sarawak Government’s decision to file a petition in the Federal Court to determine the constitutional validity and continued applicability of key federal petroleum laws to Sarawak.

The petition seeks judicial clarity on the application of the Petroleum Development Act 1974, Continental Shelf Act 1966 and Petroleum Mining Act 1966 to Sarawak, particularly in light of Sarawak’s constitutional position under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 and the Federal Constitution.

Wilfred described the move as bold, principled, and constitutionally grounded.

“By bringing this matter before the Federal Court, the Sarawak Government is asserting our constitutional rights in a lawful, mature and responsible manner,” he said in a statement.

Wilfred noted that Sarawak’s boundaries and sovereign rights over its natural resources, including petroleum within its territorial limits, were established prior to Malaysia Day and preserved under MA63.

This action, he said, reflects courage and conviction and shows that the Sarawak Government is prepared to defend the State’s legitimate rights through proper legal channels while maintaining respect for the Federal constitutional framework.

“As a GPS backbencher, this move strengthens, rather than weakens, national unity. A strong Federation is built upon mutual respect and constitutional fidelity. When constitutional questions arise, the proper forum is the court and not political rhetoric.

“This legal step is ultimately about intergenerational justice. Our natural resources belong to the people of Sarawak. Ensuring that our constitutional position is properly defined today protects the prosperity and development opportunities of future generations.”

He thus called upon all Sarawakians to stay united in supporting the Sarawak Government to safeguard the sovereignty, resources and future prosperity of Sarawak. - UKASnews