Critics and skeptics of the current federal-state partnership warn that the focus on political cooperation may mask deeper, unresolved structural issues. There is concern that the current alignment is driven more by political expediency than by a genuine commitment to constitutional reform. If the partnership is built primarily on the personal rapport between current leaders, it may prove fragile and susceptible to collapse if the political landscape shifts or if disagreements arise over the distribution of wealth and power.
One of the primary concerns is the lack of transparency regarding the specific terms of these agreements. Without clear, legally binding frameworks, there is a risk that the devolution of power could be reversed or undermined by future federal administrations. Skeptics argue that Sarawak needs more than just promises of cooperation; it requires institutional safeguards that protect its rights under the Malaysia Agreement 1963, regardless of which coalition holds power in Putrajaya. The current approach may inadvertently centralize power by making the state overly dependent on federal goodwill.
There is also the question of accountability. As federal and state responsibilities become increasingly blurred, it becomes harder for the public to hold officials accountable for project delays or mismanagement. When a project fails, the federal government may blame the state, and the state may blame the federal government, leaving citizens without a clear path for recourse. This ambiguity can lead to inefficiency and corruption, as the lines of authority become obscured by layers of inter-agency cooperation.
Finally, some observers worry that the focus on large-scale development projects may overlook the needs of marginalized communities in rural areas. There is a fear that the benefits of this partnership will be concentrated in urban centers, while the rural population continues to struggle with basic service delivery. For the partnership to be truly effective, it must prioritize equitable growth that reaches all segments of society, rather than just serving the interests of political elites and large corporations.