PENAMPANG – Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has urged politicians in Sabah to stop criticising and denying the federal government’s efforts to restore Sabah’s rights as outlined in the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) and the Federal Constitution.
He said that the total allocation allotted for Sabah this year, amounting to RM16 billion, is more than the allocation requested by the state under the 40% revenue entitlement.
“I have seen and heard statements by some MPs – even those from the unity government – criticising the federal government allegedly for not giving Sabah its fair share and treating it poorly, like neglecting a stepchild.
“Since I became prime minister, the total allocation for Sabah has increased significantly. In 2022, it stood at RM12.9 billion, and by 2024, I increased it to RM16 billion.
“So people who have been ‘attacking’ the federal government must remember…yes it is true that we have not made a decision (on the 40% revenue entitlement), but we have to know that RM16 billion in allocation is far more than the 40% entitlement,” he said.
Anwar was speaking at the launch of the state-level Kaamatan festival at Hongkod Koisaan KDCA today.
In recent weeks, the issue of 40% entitlement to compensate for the delayed response from the federal government has been a topic of contention.
The federal government has also appealed to the high court’s decision to grant leave for a judicial review filed by the Sabah Law Society (SLS) on matters regarding the 40% revenue entitlement.
Anwar reiterated that while the people of Sabah have every right to claim and fight for their rights, he urged them to be understanding as the implementation of all of Sabah’s claims would occur gradually, in stages.
“We need to consider the broader picture. Yes, you can fight for your rights but don’t deny what we have done. During my visits to Penang and Johor recently, there were concerns about the substantial amount I allocated to Sabah.
“However, I clarified that it was primarily for infrastructure development, considering Sabah’s vast area.
“Nevertheless, I want everyone to remain united and recognise that this progress should be implemented gradually,” he added.
He said that federal cabinet members and Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor know that he is paying close attention to matters related to Sabah, and he requested periodic updates on the matter.
“Don’t speak as if I didn’t do anything, because we don’t want to start the same sentiment in other states.
“These people who attacked the government didn’t do anything when they were in power, but claimed for this and that after they lost power,” he added.
Anwar also said that within a year, he had fulfilled Sabah’s demands more comprehensively than all the previous governments.
“I have no problem at all fulfilling all (claims under) MA63, I just ask for people not to criticise and don’t deny (what we have done),” he added.
Earlier, Anwar stated his unwavering commitment to eradicating hardcore poverty in Sabah, aiming to achieve zero hardcore poverty in the state by July this year.
“Believe me, what is important is that we solve the rakyat’s problems first. Access to clean water and electricity, better roads, and alleviating poverty are our priorities as both state and federal governments.
“Ignore those who are saying otherwise. Our job is to defend the people’s rights,” he added. – May 31, 2024.