Sabah's Concerns Rise Over Ambalat Joint Development: Was State Consultation Adequate?
KOTA KINABALU, July 1 – Concerns are mounting in Sabah following Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Jeffrey Kitingan's strong questioning of the recent Ambalat joint development agreement with Indonesia. Kitingan has voiced disappointment over Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s statements made during a visit to Indonesia, suggesting a lack of adequate consultation with the Sabah state government regarding the plan.
The Ambalat Block, a disputed maritime area in the Celebes Sea, has long been a source of contention between Malaysia and Indonesia. The potential for joint development has been discussed for years, but Kitingan’s remarks highlight anxieties within Sabah that its interests and rights are not being fully considered.
“I am deeply concerned that the Prime Minister appeared to unilaterally agree to a joint development plan without proper consultation with the Sabah government,” Kitingan stated. “Sabah has a vested interest in this matter, as the area falls within Sabah’s maritime boundaries. Any agreement that affects Sabah's rights and resources should be discussed and agreed upon with the state government first.”
The crux of Kitingan's concern revolves around the principle of territorial rights and the importance of ensuring Sabah’s autonomy within the Federation of Malaysia. He argues that the state government should have been involved in negotiations and discussions from the outset, and that a thorough impact assessment should be conducted to understand the potential implications for Sabah’s economy, environment, and security.
This issue is particularly sensitive given Sabah's historical grievances regarding resource control and revenue sharing. Many Sabahans feel that the state has not received a fair share of the benefits derived from its natural resources. Kitingan's questioning echoes these sentiments and calls for greater transparency and accountability in the handling of maritime boundary disputes.
The Prime Minister’s office has yet to issue a detailed response to Kitingan's concerns. However, observers note that the situation underscores the need for clearer communication and coordination between the federal government and state governments on matters of national importance, especially those affecting territorial boundaries and resource management.
The Ambalat situation presents a complex challenge for both Malaysia and Indonesia. While joint development can potentially benefit both countries through resource sharing and economic cooperation, it is crucial to ensure that the rights and interests of all stakeholders, including Sabah, are protected. Kitingan’s call for greater consultation and transparency serves as a reminder of the importance of inclusive decision-making in resolving territorial disputes and managing shared resources.
Moving forward, it is expected that there will be increased scrutiny of the Ambalat joint development plan and calls for greater state involvement in related discussions. The outcome of this situation will likely have significant implications for Malaysia-Indonesia relations and the balance of power between the federal government and Sabah.