Without the discussion and approval of the local Malay and Dayaks leaders Charles Vyner Brooke decided to cede Sarawak to the British.
[citation needed] Charles Vyner Brooke said the drafting of the constitution was "to ensure that our beloved subjects shall ultimately enjoy their inherent right to control their own lives and destinies".
[3] The cardinal principle no 7 also mentioned that "Subjects of whatever race or creed shall be freely and impartially admitted to offices in Our Service".
The constitution also continued the Sarawak's status as an independent state with the British responsible for defense and foreign affairs.
[6] In 1962, Sarawak political leaders proposed the 18-point agreement which was based on the Nine Cardinal Principles as part of the demands before the formation of Malaysia.