Revenue rights: Ex-Sabah lawmaker urges Putrajaya to actively work towards fulfilling MA63

KOTA KINABALU: The Federal Government must not cast any further doubt on the unwavering determination of Sabahans to obtain their rights under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), says a former state assemblyman.

Sabah rights activist Datuk James Ligunjang said it is vital that Putrajaya honour its commitments, including the 40% net revenue entitlement to uplift the state from underdevelopment.

”Over the last 60 years, Sabah has suffered from a severe lack of progress and development, while Peninsular Malaysia has experienced significant economic growth,” he said in a statement Sunday (Dec 3).

“This stark imbalance has had detrimental effects on the people of Sabah, leaving them marginalised and deprived of even basic necessities,” said Ligunjang.

He said the call for a 40% revenue entitlement is not unreasonable, but instead, a fair and just demand for Sabah’s economic growth and future prosperity.

Ligunjang said that a thriving Sabah translates into a stronger and more united Malaysia.

”By granting Sabah its rightful share of revenue, the federal government would be investing in the growth and development of not only the state but the entire nation.

“Sabahans possess a strong sense of pride and identity, which fuels their relentless pursuit of a better future for themselves and their state.

“The federal government must recognise and respect the commitments outlined in MA63 and the Federal Constitution, as they represent the collective will of the Sabah people,” he said.

Ligunjang said doubting their resolve only serves to undermine the trust and harmony between the peninsula and the Bornean states.

“It is therefore high time for the federal government to dismiss any doubts and actively work towards fulfilling Sabahans’ rightful demands for their 40% revenue entitlement,” he added.