KOTA KINABALU: Sabah’s five-decade wait for its constitutional revenue return marks a turning point in restoring its fiscal rights, says Datuk Mustapha Sakmud.
The Sabah PKR chairman said it demonstrates the Madani Government’s commitment to honouring the spirit and essence of the Malaysia Agreement 1963, through bold action in not appealing the High Court decision.
“Sabah PKR expresses its deepest gratitude to the Prime Minister and Cabinet members for making a decision grounded in true principles of justice and federalism,” he said.
Mustapha said they welcomed the Federal Government’s immediate preparedness to negotiate with the Sabah government after the state election.
“Negotiations must be conducted in the spirit of cooperation and sincerity between both governments,” he added.
He said political games or narrow interests must be avoided to ensure Sabah’s revenue truly returns for regional development and the people’s wellbeing.
Parti Bersatu Rakyat Sabah president Datuk Arthur Kurup said the decision not to appeal respects rights under the Federal Constitution and shows full support for Sabah’s development.
“I urge Sabahans to have faith in our PM and in this Unity Government, which has shown genuine effort to help develop and protect Sabah,” he said.
“One example is our government’s victory at the International Court of Justice against the Sulu group’s claims to Sabah,” he added.
“Another is greater state autonomy for projects of RM50mil and below. Federal State relations are very important and we need to work together as one united federation for the benefit of all,” said Kurup.
