The Sarawak government is currently undertaking a significant linguistic and legal review concerning the official designation of its legislative assembly, known locally as the ‘Dewan Undangan Negeri’ (DUN), or State Legislative Assembly. This initiative reflects a broader effort to redefine Sarawak’s position within the Malaysian federation.
Rethinking “Negeri” in Sarawak’s Context
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has highlighted that the term “negeri” (state) may not adequately reflect the autonomy and status of Sarawak within Malaysia. This consideration has prompted the examination of alternative terms used in other Commonwealth countries, such as “provincial parliament,” exemplified by the Provincial Parliament of Ontario in Canada.
International Comparisons and Local Implications
The Premier’s reference to international examples underlines Sarawak’s desire to align its legislative terminology more closely with its unique constitutional and historical status. “In fact, the term ‘Premier’ comes from Commonwealth countries, such as in Canada and Australia,” noted Abang Johari, illustrating the global influences on Sarawak’s political nomenclature.
Public Consultation and Legal Review
Sarawak’s approach includes engaging public feedback and conducting thorough legal reviews. A committee led by the Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department (Law, Malaysia Agreement 1963 and State-Federal Relations) Datuk Sharifah Hasidah Sayeed Aman Ghazali, in collaboration with the Attorney-General, is tasked with this review. The goal is to ensure any new terminology complies with existing laws and reflects the public’s views and Sarawak’s distinct identity.
Potential Changes to Legislative Titles
The discussion extends beyond renaming the legislative assembly itself to possibly rebranding the titles of its members. The suggestion includes changing the title from “Ahli Dewan Undangan Negeri” (ADUN) to “Ahli Dewan Undangan Sarawak” (ADUS), thereby emphasizing Sarawak’s sovereign characteristics within the federal structure of Malaysia.
Contextual Background
This move comes amidst a nuanced backdrop where Sarawak, like Sabah, holds a particular position in Malaysia, distinct from the Peninsular states and the federal territories of Kuala Lumpur and Labuan. Abang Johari’s statement, “Sarawak should not be treated as being equivalent to the federal territories,” underscores the ongoing dialogue about Sarawak’s governance and its representation at the federal level.
Conclusion
The initiative to rename Sarawak’s legislative assembly and the potential rebranding of its members’ titles represent more than a mere change of names; they symbolize a reassertion of Sarawak’s unique status and autonomy within Malaysia. As the process unfolds, it will be crucial to balance legal precedents, public opinion, and historical context to redefine Sarawak’s legislative identity in a way that truly reflects its distinct place in the federation.
