Minister Invited Dialogue on Borneo State Rights
Minister Mustapha Sakmud asked activist groups to pursue formal discussions instead of staging public protests.
Updated on Oct. 10, 2026 in Civic Engagement
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Minister in the Prime Minister's Department for Sabah and Sarawak affairs Mustapha Sakmud has invited overseas activist groups to engage in official dialogue. The offer comes as an activist group plans a demonstration regarding state rights.
Why it matters
The government seeks to address long-standing grievances regarding justice and rights under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 through structured channels. Officials are encouraging peaceful engagement that complies with local laws.
The proposed dialogue focuses on negotiations tied to the Malaysia Agreement 1963, which remain ongoing. The activist movement Sabah Sarawak Keluar Malaysia, founded in 2011, has scheduled a demonstration for October 24 in Melbourne.
The players
Mustapha Sakmud
He serves as the Minister in the Prime Minister's Department for Sabah and Sarawak affairs.
Sabah Sarawak Keluar Malaysia
This activist group formed as a Facebook movement in 2011 to advocate for rights in the Borneo states.
Doris Jones
She is the founder of the activist organization Sabah Sarawak Keluar Malaysia.
The details
Minister Mustapha Sakmud proposed that participants shift their focus from public protests to established government channels. The move aims to facilitate discussion while maintaining a peaceful atmosphere for all parties involved.
Timeline
The activist movement Sabah Sarawak Keluar Malaysia began in 2011.
Minister Mustapha Sakmud spoke about the issue in Sepanggar on October 10, 2026.
A demonstration is scheduled at the Parliament of Victoria on October 24, 2026, from 11 am to 2 pm.
Political Context
The call for formal dialogue represents an attempt to reconcile public activism with the established legal framework of the Malaysia Agreement 1963. Opposition groups continue to advocate for their specific interpretation of rights through international pressure and demonstrations.
The transition from public demonstration to official dialogue may alter how regional grievances are processed by government entities. Residents and stakeholders should monitor for updates on whether these discussions result in concrete regulatory or policy shifts.
The takeaway
Open channels for negotiation often serve as a constructive alternative to public protest in complex territorial disputes. Stakeholders interested in regional policy are encouraged to participate in established government-led forums.
Further reading
Learn more about international advocacy and official communication in Civic Engagement.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Star.
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