PRIME Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has announced yesterday (Sept 11) that the Cabinet has agreed in principle to increase parliamentary seats for Sabah and Sarawak, ensuring greater representation in line with the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).
He also said he was not certain the increased representation.
However, Anwar expressed uncertainty about the feasibility of implementing the increased representation before the next general election.
“I am not certain whether there will be sufficient time because we have to follow the process. I do not want to interfere with the constitutional process. But the important thing is that the decision has been made and the Election Commission has been informed.”
Speaking after chairing the MA63 implementation committee meeting with Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor and Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg, Anwar stressed that the increase must raise the proportion of seats held by the two states, not merely equalise numbers.
Anwar said the Election Commission has been told to begin discussions on the mechanism, with negotiations with political parties to follow.
He added that appointments of Sabah and Sarawak natives to key government posts are also being expedited.
Currently, Sabah and Sarawak hold 56 seats combined, or 25% of the 222 total, compared with 75% for peninsular Malaysia. Both states have long sought a minimum one‑third share, requiring about 18 additional seats.
(PH) Nevertheless, a Facebook post on a pro-Pakatan Harapan page indicates that Sabah and Sarawak could get at least 36 extra seats.
The post on PH Supporters also stated there will be an additional 18 seats for Peninsular Malaysia, and these will bring the total number of seats in Malaysia’s Parliament to 276.
“The PH Madani government will add 36 parliamentary seats in Sabah and Sarawak and 18 in Peninsular Malaysia, bringing the total seats to 276, with 1/3 coming from Borneo in line with MA63.” — Sept 12, 2026
Main photo credit: Prime Minister’s Office
