KOTA KINABALU, Sept 16 — The opposition’s rejection of the government-proposed memorandum of understanding (MOU) on opposition allocations does not mean negotiations have ended, said Unity Government spokesman Fahmi Fadzil.
Fahmi, who is also communications minister, said the government remains open to collaboration or negotiations with the opposition.
“Since the day he was sworn in, the Prime Minister has kept his doors wide open for collaboration or negotiations.
“The government is ready if the opposition wishes to continue negotiations on the MOU, and Deputy Prime Minister II Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof has also said we are awaiting feedback and a proposal from the opposition,” he said.
He told reporters this after officiating the Tradition In Tune 2024 Arts Festival at the Sabah International Convention Centre here today.
The media reported yesterday the opposition unanimously rejected the draft MOU for four fundamental reasons, alleging it contradicts the Federal Constitution and that some conditions in the MOU could affect the special rights of Malays and Bumiputeras.
Fahmi said the opposition must engage sincerely in efforts to reach an understanding, as Pakatan Harapan (Harapan) did when it was in the opposition.
“At that time, we entered the negotiation process sincerely, and in the end, the benefits came not only to Harapan MPs but also to the people,” he added.
— Bernama
