Waiting Game Continues: Delay on Sabah’s 40% Entitlement Raises Questions on Political Will
Luyang Assemblyman Samuel Wong has expressed deep disappointment over the Federal Government being allowed by the court to delay the implementation of Sabah’s 40% revenue entitlement review, questioning the lack of political will and urgency in resolving the matter.
He pointed out that the issue, which should have been resolved long ago, has been repeatedly delayed for decades. Despite the High Court previously setting a clear timeline for its implementation, the latest development has once again pushed Sabah into a prolonged period of waiting.
“Sabahans have waited far too long. Since the formation of Malaysia, Sabah has consistently contributed to the nation’s growth and development. Yet when it comes to our rightful entitlements, we are always told to ‘wait’,” he said.
Wong stressed that the 40% revenue entitlement is not an additional demand, but a constitutional right rooted in the foundation of Malaysia. As such, it should be treated with seriousness and implemented without further delay.
He questioned whether there is genuine political will from the Federal Government to resolve the issue.
“From what we see today, there is no sense of urgency at all,” he said.
According to him, without a clear timeline and firm commitment, the issue risks becoming another endless “waiting game”, a situation Sabahans are all too familiar with.
“We are not asking for special treatment. We are asking for what is rightfully ours. If Sabah is truly an equal partner in this federation, then our rights must not be continuously postponed,” he added.
Wong called on the Federal Government to act decisively, honour its commitments, and demonstrate sincerity in resolving the matter.
Wong stressed that this delay is not just a legal or administrative issue, but one that directly affects the daily lives of Sabahans. For decades, Sabah has continued to face fundamental challenges such as poor infrastructure, inconsistent water and electricity supply, under-resourced schools, and strained healthcare services. These are not new problems, but long-standing realities that people deal with every day. When rightful revenues are delayed, it is ultimately the people who bear the consequences.
“Sabahans are not asking for sympathy, we are asking for action. No matter how small or big, there must be a start. We have heard enough explanations and excuses over the years. People are tired of waiting while facing the same problems day after day. The time for waiting is over, Sabah needs to see real action now,” he concluded.
