KUALA LUMPUR: State politicians must work together in the struggle to reclaim rights under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), including the 40% constitutional entitlement being pursued by Sabah, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
He stated that unity speaks volumes and would not only make it easier to stake claims to rights but also push the federal government to respect Sabahans' voices in these matters.
"But if there is continued bickering over power grabs, it will slow down and complicate our efforts to achieve our objectives," he said in a statement on Sunday (June 2).
Hajiji said the state government remains committed to fighting for the rights of the people, including reclaiming the 40% net revenue entitlement, despite many negative voices suggesting otherwise.
He dismissed accusations from the opposition that the state was keeping quiet about this issue, whether in MA63 meetings or cabinet meetings, as untrue.
"These are attempts to belittle our efforts in the fight for MA63. They do not know that we constantly bring this matter up. Even in our MA63 meetings with the Prime Minister, I was present," he said.
“I want to stress that we are reclaiming all our rights, including the 40% net revenue, and these must be returned to Sabah. That is clear. So do not say that the state is not doing anything," said Hajiji.
He added that the state has been vocal, and these discussions were recorded in the minutes of meetings, not only under Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim but also during the tenures of Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin and Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri.
He pointed out that these minutes can be found in the meetings on MA63.
