KIULU, Nov 5 — The Federal Government’s forthcoming decision on Sabah’s 40 per cent revenue entitlement will be a crucial test of its sincerity in respecting and upholding the State’s constitutional rights, said Datuk Joniston Bangkuai.
The Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) Information Chief said the issue should not be viewed through a political lens, but rather as a matter of constitutional obligation and fairness long overdue to the people of Sabah.
“This is not about politics or power. It is about honouring what has been clearly provided for under the Federal Constitution,” he said during a community outreach event in Kampung Talantang here today.
“We hope Putrajaya will demonstrate genuine commitment and political maturity by accepting the High Court’s ruling instead of appealing it. Any attempt to overturn the decision would send the wrong message to Sabahans and betray the spirit of partnership within Malaysia,” he added.
The High Court ruling, delivered recently, directed the Federal Government to review the State’s 40 per cent revenue entitlement within 90 days and conclude a new agreement within 180 days. The decision reaffirmed provisions under Articles 112C and 112D of the Federal Constitution, and Section 2(1), Part IV of the Tenth Schedule, which guarantee Sabah’s right to 40 per cent of the net revenue collected from the State — a commitment unfulfilled since 1974.
Joniston, who also serves as Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) Information Chief, said the ruling represents a chance for the Federal Government to rebuild trust with Sabahans and close the long-standing development gap between Sabah and Peninsular Malaysia, particularly in rural areas.
“Respecting this decision would allow the State to better address fundamental needs such as infrastructure, connectivity, agriculture, and basic amenities — areas that have been neglected for decades,” he said.
He stressed that the people of Sabah no longer want political rhetoric or excuses, but decisive action and genuine political will.
“Sabahans have waited almost half a century. The time for delay is over. What we need now is courage and sincerity to do what is right,” he said.
Earlier, Joniston presented Rumah Mesra Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) homes to several recipients in Kampung Talantang, underlining the State Government’s ongoing commitment to community welfare.
So far, more than 100 SMJ homes have been completed in Kiulu, and Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor recently announced that the number of SMJ homes would be increased to 50 units per constituency starting next year.