Self-government first would mean that the heirs, when the British leave, would be the Chinese owing to their educational and economic superiority. This in turn could lead to domination by Communism.
127. The more important of the safeguards and recommendations which the party would like to see adopted, in addition to the recommendations of the Malaysia Solidarity Consultative Committee, are the following:
A clear statement should be made in the new Constitution that although Islam may be the religion of the Federation, it will not be forced on North Borneo as the religion of the State.
Malay is acceptable as the national language, but English should be used as an official language without any time limit. In Kadazan areas, Kadazan should be taught in the schools.
The many Kadazans of mixed blood should be eligible for the special privileges to which the indigenous peoples will be entitled if the recommendations of the Malaysia Solidarity Consultative Committee are accepted.
Customary rights to land and Kadazan customs, traditions and culture should be fully respected and protected.
To be under State control.
This should be much larger than any of the States in the present Federation of Malaya and much larger than Singapore.
In the Senate, North Bomeo should have eight members.