KOTA KINABALU: The Paris Court of Appeal's decision to cancel the so-called "Final Award" of US$14.9bil to the self-claimed heirs of the defunct Sulu sultanate reaffirms that Sabah is not a commercial property, says Warisan president, Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal.
“This decision brings a clear end to a wrongful and illegal claim by individuals claiming to be heirs of the defunct Sultanate of Sulu,” he said in a statement Saturday (Dec 13).
He said Sabah’s status was firmly protected by the Federal Constitution and the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).
Shafie also observed the position taken by Sabah Law Society, which has made clear that matters involving Sabah’s territory and constitutional status cannot be decided through unauthorised external processes.
“I give my clear commitment to the people of Sabah that I will continue to safeguard Sabah’s sovereignty and constitutional position within Malaysia. Together with Warisan, we will work tirelessly, using lawful and constitutional means to defend Sabah’s rights,” said Shafie.
“Defending Sabah cannot be selective. The Malaysia Agreement 1963 must be fully and honestly implemented without further delay. This includes Sabah’s constitutional right to 40% of the State's share of net federal revenue,” he said, adding that only by fully honouring MA63 can Sabah’s sovereignty be protected, its dignity upheld, and its place in Malaysia put beyond doubt for future generations.
