Why Sarawak Needs Full Implementation of MA63

Posted by EngineeringProfit > 3 hours ago | Report Abuse

The federal government should ensure that the Malaysia Agreement 1963 is respected in its entirety, including the clauses regarding religious autonomy. This would help allay fears that religious institutions like Jakim are overstepping their bounds.

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2 comment(s). Last comment by EngineeringProfit 3 hours ago

EngineeringProfit

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Posted by EngineeringProfit > 3 hours ago | Report Abuse

Jakim was established in 1997 to oversee Islamic affairs, but its influence is generally limited to Peninsular Malaysia. There has been growing concern, however, over the years that the federal government’s centralization efforts, including Jakim's activities, may infringe upon the autonomy of Sarawak in religious and cultural matters.

EngineeringProfit

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Posted by EngineeringProfit > 3 hours ago | Report Abuse

Unlike Peninsular Malaysia, where Islam is the official religion and has a strong influence on public policies and laws, Sabah and Sarawak have more religious diversity. A significant portion of their population adheres to Christianity, indigenous beliefs, and other faiths. Under the MA63, both states were guaranteed autonomy over religious matters. Islam is not the official religion of these states, unlike in Peninsular Malaysia, and there is no constitutional requirement for their governments to promote Islam.

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