KOTA KINABALU, July 19 — Sabah has accused the federal government of not being serious in reinstating the state’s rights after it failed to acknowledge the set deadline for negotiations on Sabah’s constitutional right to 40 per cent revenue claim.

Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Jeffrey Kitingan said that the one-year deadline for the technical committee to discuss, agree on and finalise the implementation of the 40 per cent net revenue allocation formula for Sabah expired yesterday.

“Despite this, there has been no progress or announcement regarding this critical issue. This lack of action clearly demonstrates a lack of seriousness from the federal government,” he said in a statement last night.

Kitingan, who is also Parti Solidariti Tanah Airku (STAR Sabah) president, said the ongoing failure to honour the 40 per cent revenue entitlement perpetuates economic disparities and contributes to the underdevelopment and poverty of Sabah.

“The people of Sabah deserve better, and it is time for the federal government to demonstrate its commitment to rectifying this long-standing issue,” said Kitingan.

He urged the Madani government to prioritise the implementation of the 40 per cent revenue allocation for Sabah, especially now that the state government has provided the necessary data.

“Ensuring that Sabah receives its rightful share of revenue is not merely a financial issue but a matter of justice and fairness. Concrete steps must be taken to fulfil this commitment and ensure that all aspects of MA63 are fully implemented in a timely and transparent manner.

“The people of Sabah have waited long enough. It is time for the federal government to act with urgency and sincerity. The successful implementation of MA63, including the 40 per cent net revenue allocation, will benefit Sabah and strengthen the unity and cohesion of our nation as a whole,” he said.

Kitingan said the 40 per cent net revenue allocation is essential for ensuring that Sabah receives a fair share of the revenue generated within its borders, supporting the state’s development and improving the welfare of its people.

“For decades, Sabahans have been waiting for the full implementation of this agreement, which is crucial for the state’s economic growth and overall prosperity.

The 40 per cent return of revenue is enshrined in the Federal Constitution under Article 112 and was paid by the federal government to the state up to 1974.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had in his 2023 Budget speech said he recognised the right and that the federal government is committed to improve the rate of the special grant compared to what was previously agreed and will also expedite the negotiations to find a solution.

The Sabah Law Society, with the support of the state government has filed a judicial review against the federal government decision to gazette its decision to pay “interim” amounts as negotiations continue.

https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2024/07/19/dcm-kitingan-accuses-federal-govt-of-neglecting-sabahs-40pc-revenue-claim-as-deadline-passes/144236