PRESS STATEMENT: COURT DECISION REGARDING STAY OF EXECUTION OF 40% SABAH RIGHTS
I acknowledge the court's decision to grant the Federal Government's application for a stay of execution regarding the claim for 40% of Sabah's revenue. Although this decision is part of the legal process, it should not be used as an excuse to continue delaying the implementation of Sabah's rights that have long been enshrined in the Constitution.
Sabah's right to 40% of revenue is not a new demand, but a recognized right. The Prime Minister himself has confirmed the existence of this right, and the Federal Government also acknowledges this as stipulated in the Constitution. Therefore, there is no justification for the ongoing delay in fulfilling this responsibility.
The people of Sabah have given a mandate and power to the State Government under GRS to govern this state and defend the rights and interests of the people. In this regard, the people have the right to urge the State Government to take a firmer and bolder stance in ensuring that this demand is fully met.
The State Government cannot continue to hide behind the excuses of "will negotiate" or "is negotiating" that we have repeatedly heard since the 1970s. It is time for a more assertive approach to be taken.
Regarding the suggestion for Warisan to withdraw support, the reality is that Warisan currently holds only 3 out of 25 parliamentary seats in Sabah. This number, practically, is not significant enough to exert sufficient pressure on the Federal Government.
However, if 22 Members of Parliament from GRS and Sabah representatives from PH and UMNO take a firm stance on this issue, only then will there be significant strength to exert real pressure on the Federal Government.
This 40% demand is the primary responsibility of the Sabah State Government. Therefore, the State Government must lead this effort clearly and boldly in urging the implementation of this right. In this matter, Warisan will fully support any firm actions taken in the interest of Sabah.
The question now is, is GRS brave enough to take such a stance?
Given that the mandate has been given by the people to GRS to lead Sabah, it is appropriate for the people of Sabah themselves to play a role in urging the State Government to be more assertive and serious in ensuring that this demand is not further delayed by the Federal Government.
I urge the Sabah State Government to establish a clear position and give an ultimatum to the Federal Government with a concrete timeline for the implementation of this 40% right. This firmness is important not only to ensure justice for Sabah but also to maintain the people's trust in government institutions.
This issue is not just a matter of numbers or revenue, but a matter of dignity, rights, and the future of Sabah.
That is all.
Mudi Dubing
Member of the Supreme Council of the Warisan Party
Head of the Warisan Party Division, P182 Pensiangan
