Don't rush or politicise Sabah 40pct revenue claim - state community leader

 

Jerry Ambuting Said, the former honorary president of the Sabah Honorary Rela Members Association, has spoken against the “countdown” for Sabah’s 40 percent revenue claim.

He said the statement by Tuaran MP Wilfred Madius Tangau on the state’s claim does not reflect the full scope of the ongoing negotiation process.

He stressed that the issue should not be politicised, as technical and policy negotiations are still underway, and public statements like Wilfred’s risk creating misunderstanding.

According to Jerry, negotiations based on the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) are conducted through official channels, including the MA63 Consultative Council Technical Committee, which requires in-depth review and careful legal and fiscal consideration.

“The negotiation process also takes into account various aspects, including financial implications to the country and the shared interests between the federation and Sabah. It cannot be rushed merely due to the pressure of a deadline.

“Respecting court decisions is important, but at the same time, all parties must allow space for a mature, thorough, and fact-based negotiation process, rather than one guided by perception,” he said.

Tuaran MP Wilfred Madius Tangau

Earlier, Madius questioned via a Facebook post the lack of updates on the negotiations following a court decision setting 180 days to finalise the matter, with the period expected to end on April 15, which is in 23 days.

Jerry stressed that Madius, who previously served as a federal minister and as deputy chief minister of Sabah, should better understand the complexity of negotiations between the two sides.

“He should appreciate that negotiations involving fiscal, legal, and policy interests require time and discussions at multiple levels, and cannot be judged solely based on public statements,” he said.

He also noted that Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has given clear assurances of the federal government’s commitment to resolving Sabah-related rights issues, including the 40 percent revenue claim, in line with the spirit of the Constitution and MA63.

In this context, Jerry urged all parties to act more responsibly when commenting on issues of state interest and to prioritise a constructive approach to ensure Sabah’s claims can be realised effectively and within the framework of the law.

- Bernama