PRESS STATEMENT: The 40% Motion: A Test of Courage — No More Excuses, No More Evasion
I express my full and unequivocal support for the motion tabled by YB Chin Tek Ming, which calls upon the State Government to determine, calculate, and claim Sabah’s constitutional entitlement of 40% of the net revenue derived by the Federation from Sabah, specifically for the years 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, and for all subsequent years, in accordance with the Federal Constitution.
This motion is not rhetorical. It is precise, measurable, and grounded in law.
It demands three non-negotiable actions:
1. An official computation of the actual 40% net revenue derived from Sabah;
2. Full transparency and disclosure of these figures to the Assembly and the people;
3. A firm and uncompromising claim to ensure Sabah receives what is rightfully due.
The question now is no longer “whether it can be done,” but who has the courage to act — and who is trying to evade responsibility.
For far too long, Sabah has been shortchanged through closed-door negotiations, ambiguous formulas, and payments that fall far below what is constitutionally owed. Each time this issue is raised, we are met with technical excuses — as if constitutional rights can be deferred, diluted, or negotiated away.
This must end.
Let me be clear:
Any party that refuses to support this motion is choosing to perpetuate injustice against Sabah.
There is no room left for neutrality.
There is no room left for political games.
If the government is sincere in defending Sabah’s rights, then support for this motion must be immediate, unconditional, and free from any weakening amendments or delays.
Every ringgit unclaimed is a lost opportunity — delayed development, widening regional inequality, and a future compromised for the people of Sabah.
History will not remember excuses.
It will remember who stood up — and who stood aside.
Support this motion without compromise.
Claim the 40% without submission.
Or be prepared to answer for failing Sabah.
YB THAM YUN FOOK
