The government is open to considering Sabah and Sarawak’s request for greater economic development autonomy, but its implementation must align with the Federal Constitution and the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), said Deputy Economy Minister Datuk Hanifah Hajar Taib.br br Responding to a question in the Dewan Rakyat on Wednesday (Oct 8), she said any move toward autonomy requires a formal proposal from the state governments and proof of their readiness to manage administrative, financial, human resource and governance responsibilities.br br On efforts to bridge the development gap under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP), Hanifah said the focus will be on expanding rural roads, water and electricity access, education and healthcare facilities, and digital connectivity, guided by data and state priorities.