LDP Chin’s Remarks Show a Deep Misunderstanding of Sabah’s Struggle for Autonomy

                          Chrisnadia Sinam 

Borneo Herald

8.18PM MYT, 15-10-2025

By Chrisnadia Sinam

THE statement by Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) president Chin Su Phin that “Sabah must first be developed and strong before autonomy can be discussed” reflects a fundamental misunderstanding of the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) and the spirit of federalism.

Autonomy is not a reward to be given after development — it is a right guaranteed at the formation of Malaysia. To suggest that Sabah must first “earn” its autonomy after development is to ignore decades of constitutional injustice and the very foundation upon which Malaysia was built.

The truth is, Sabah’s lack of autonomy is precisely the reason why the state remains underdeveloped today. When crucial powers and resources are controlled from Putrajaya, Sabah will always be dependent and lagging behind. Development cannot come without decision-making power, fiscal independence, and genuine control over our natural wealth.

It is therefore misleading and irresponsible to tell Sabahans that autonomy will “come automatically” after development. Sarawak’s progress did not come from waiting for federal permission — it came from asserting its rights boldly and consistently. Sabah must do the same, not beg for what already belongs to us under MA63.

Chin’s remarks also expose the political subservience of GRS to federal interests. By reducing autonomy to a future promise and tying Sabah’s progress to “federal support,” he effectively admits that GRS leaders have no courage to defend Sabah’s constitutional rights.

Sabah needs leaders who understand that autonomy is not a slogan or a bargaining chip — it is the legal, political, and moral foundation of our equality within Malaysia. Only through autonomy can true development, dignity, and stability be achieved.

Chrisnadia Sinam is the Women Head of 

Change Advocate Movement Sabah (CAMOS)#~Borneo Herald™