KUCHING: Sarawak will continue pursuing a finalised formula for the review of its special grant under Article 112D of the Federal Constitution, the state legislative assembly heard.
Deputy Minister in the Premier's Department Datuk Sharifah Hasidah Sayeed Aman Ghazali said the state government had submitted its proposed formula to Putrajaya and negotiations were ongoing.
"Considerable progress has been made in terms of engagement, technical discussions and consultations with the Federal Government to refine the proposal under Article 112D.
"As part of our ongoing efforts, the Federal Government has agreed, as an interim measure, to increase the special grant from RM300mil last year to RM600mil starting from this year, for the next five years.
"While we are thankful for this, the Sarawak government continues to advocate for a finalised formula that is fair, transparent and reflective of Sarawak's contribution to the nation," she told Lidam Assan (GPS-Katibas) during question time on Wednesday (Nov 26).
Sharifah Hasidah also said Putrajaya's financial obligations to Sabah and Sarawak were spelt out in the Constitution and subject to judicial scrutiny to ensure they were properly fulfilled.
She said this was a key principle underscoring the Kota Kinabalu High Court's decision affirming Sabah's entitlement to a 40% revenue share and review of the special grants.
"While Sabah's situation is unique due to its express constitutional provision on the 40% entitlement, both Sabah and Sarawak are guaranteed financial reviews pursuant to Article 112D of the Federal Constitution.
"The court's findings reinforce the expectation that such reviews must be conducted promptly, transparently and in good faith," she said.
Sharifah Hasidah reiterated the Sarawak government's position that the special grant should be based on a clear, consistent and clearly defined formula.
She said the court decision was a meaningful step towards ensuring fairness and accountability in the Federal Government's financial obligations.
"Sarawak remains steadfast in protecting our constitutional rights and will continue engaging with the Federal Government under the framework of the Malaysia Agreement 1963," she added.
