On 19 August 2023, The Sabah Society, together with SABAR Trustees, hosted a thought-provoking talk on “The Inequality of the Borneo States and How to Close the Gap after 60 Years.” The session featured Mohamed Tawfik bin Tun Dr. Ismail, eldest son of the late Tun Dr. Ismail Abdul Rahman, Malaysia’s 2nd Deputy Prime Minister.
During the evening, historian Professor Emeritus Datuk Dr. Teo Kok Seong reminded the audience that Tun Dr. Ismail remains an enduring symbol of unity. He frequently called on Malaysians of all races and religions to foster mutual respect and understanding. His vision for national harmony was anchored on three important elements:
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Building strong inter-ethnic relations
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Getting to know one another
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Appreciating and understanding each other’s cultures
These values continue to resonate with East Malaysians today.
As co-founder of Malaysia First, Tawfik has long championed a closer relationship between East and West Malaysia. He reflected on his father’s philosophy and how it might guide current efforts to bridge longstanding gaps between Peninsular Malaysia and the Borneo states.
Tawfik, who previously served as Member of Parliament for Sungai Benut (now Simpang Renggam), shared his views on inequality, governance, and the urgent need for greater political will to address the challenges faced by Sabah and Sarawak. Drawing from his wide-ranging experience—including his role in establishing TV3 in 1984, consultancy with the Institute of Southeast Asian Studies in Singapore, and his publications on Malaysian politics—he provided both historical context and forward-looking suggestions.
The talk was not a one-way lecture. Audience members actively engaged with Tawfik, posing questions, raising concerns, and sharing their own perspectives on how Malaysia can close the development and policy gaps that persist after six decades. The lively discussion highlighted the strong interest among Sabahans in ensuring that the promises of Malaysia’s formation in 1963 are realised more fully and equitably.
About Mohamed Tawfik bin Tun Dr. Ismail
Tawfik is a graduate of the University of New England and the University of Oxford. His notable works include “Malaysia’s First Year at the United Nations” and “Drifting into Politics: The Unfinished Memoirs of Tun Dr. Ismail Abdul Rahman” (co-authored with Ooi Kee Beng). He also co-founded Malaysia First and Gerak Independent, movements that advocate for political reform and unity beyond race and religion. In the 2022 General Election, Tawfik contested the Bagan Datuk parliamentary seat as an independent candidate, challenging UMNO President Zahid Hamidi and others in an effort to bring new political dynamics to the national stage.
By hosting talks such as this, The Sabah Society continues to provide a platform for dialogue on issues of national importance, while encouraging open discussion that connects history, politics, and community aspirations. Tawfik’s insights, along with the engaged participation of the audience, reminded us that addressing inequality is not only a matter of policy but also of collective commitment to unity and fairness.
Written by Chloe Lee Mei Tchuin
