PM can also be from Sabah, Sarawak - Jeffrey Kitingan

KOTA KINABALU - Parti Solidariti Tanah Airku (Star) president Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan does not rule out the possibility that the positions of Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister can come from Sabah and Sarawak.

This follows the issue of the demand to restore 35 per cent of the Parliamentary seats in Sabah and Sarawak which was discussed in the Special Council on the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) which was seen as an opportunity for the two positions to be held by leaders from the states.

He said the addition of the seat reflects the partnership in the establishment of Malaysia, which is a partnership between the three Peninsular regions, Sabah and Sarawak.

"Even if we only have 35 per cent of the seats later, it is a recognition that without Sabah and Sarawak there is no Malaysia.

"That's why one day the Prime Minister can come from Sabah and Sarawak," he told reporters after attending the AirAsia ride launch ceremony here, on Monday.

He said this when asked about the demand for 35 per cent of the Parliamentary seats for Sabah and Sarawak which was discussed in the fifth MA63 meeting chaired by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob last Thursday.

In the same development, the Sabah deputy chief minister is also of the view that the Election Commission (EC) should agree if the 35 per cent was returned to Sabah.

"The EC has to comply with the people's aspirations and political aspirations as well as with the current situation.

“This is because this is a guarantee and a promise when we are partners and no region can conquer two-thirds of the parliamentary seats.

"So that's why I believe the EC is a wise body, which is practical and accepts what is appropriate. So, I believe they will agree," he said.