“It is most welcoming and refreshing for all of us in Sabah and Sarawak to hear the good news from the prime minister,” he added.

He was responding to Mahathir’s statement earlier today that the status of Sabah and Sarawak, which changed from equal partners with Malaya to states within the federation, would be restored to its original position once a study on the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) is completed.

“Restoring the status of Sabah and Sarawak according to MA63 will create a solid foundation to strengthen ties between the peninsula, Sabah and Sarawak,” Liew said.

However, he warned that much needed to be done in order to restore the status of Sabah and Sarawak as equal partners in the federation.

“It will take a bit of time, but we must have patience in order for greater things to happen for us all,” he said.

“I can assure all of you that work has begun in earnest since I was entrusted with the task over a month ago.”

Liew also urged the people not to bicker over the issue as this would only weaken the state and prevent it from achieving its goals.