When 'Propaganda' Meets Principle: The Unwavering Assertion of Sarawak's Autonomy

The recent online reaction to a Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) account, which seemingly celebrated a Petronas victory in a legal dispute, has exposed a profound fault line in Malaysia's federation: the issue of Sarawak’s autonomy and resource ownership.

Rather than focusing on corporate triumph, the public conversation swiftly pivoted to a near-unanimous defense of Sarawak’s fundamental rights as a founding partner of Malaysia. For many, the MCMC’s actions were viewed not as neutral reporting, but as a form of state-backed "propaganda" that actively works to undermine the region's dignity and self-determination. As I noted, a government body must provide clear information and avoid spreading things that contradict Malaysian law, especially if the perceived "relevant law" violates Sarawak’s legitimate rights.

The Non-Negotiable: "Minyak dan Gas Milik Sarawak"

The foundation of the public outcry is a simple, non-negotiable assertion of ownership. As one comment puts it: "minyak dan gas milik sarawak, nak pertikai apa lagi?" (Oil and gas belong to Sarawak, what more is there to dispute?).

This sentiment moves beyond political negotiation; it establishes a legal and moral "full stop." As I stated in response, "Hasil bumi Sarawak ialah milik Sarawak. Full stop." Any exploitation against this wealth and dignity is seen as persecution and an insult to the state's very existence and autonomy. The urgency to protect these rights is encapsulated in the demand: "jangan biar pencuri masuk rumah kita, JagaSarawak baik baik."

Exploitation, Insult, and the Language of Injustice

The frustration over the perceived central government control is captured in the powerful, emotive language used by citizens online. This is not just an economic grievance, but a rejection of historical imbalance.

The federal entity seen as benefiting unjustly is described as "penyamun besar negara ini bagi wilayah Sarawak dan Sabah" (this country's great robber/thief for the territories of Sarawak and Sabah). Others lament the political status, crying, "Terang2 sarawak dijajah .. Sampai bila kita dijajah?" (Clearly Sarawak is being colonised/oppressed.. Until when will we be colonised/oppressed?).

These strong words highlight a feeling of marginalisation—that rights are being ignored because the other side is perceived to be acting out of financial need: "hak kami org serawak semenajong tak da duit" (our rights, Sarawak people, Peninsular [Malaysia] has no money).

Defending the Status of a Founding Partner

While some suggest "Sarawak sepatut kluar drpd gabungan yg tak adil" (Sarawak should leave the unfair federation), the primary and most constructive call is for the central government to fully honor the existing foundational structure: the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).

Sarawak is not merely one of the thirteen states; it is one of the rakan pengasas Malaysia (founding partners). This status, coupled with its role as an important defensive stronghold, means its maruah dan autonomi (dignity and autonomy) must be respected by all parties, including the central government and Peninsular Malaysia.

The message is a unified call for justice, legal compliance, and self-determination. It demands recognition of Sarawak’s ownership and management capacity, culminating in the simple economic command: "Bayarlah Petros..." (Pay Petros...). This ongoing public consensus is a powerful reminder that the fight for autonomy is alive, principled, and demands to be recognized by the Federal framework in both letter and spirit.