PBS urges constructive talks to secure Sabah’s 40 pct revenue entitlement

KOTA KINABALU (April 7): Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) information chief Datuk Joniston Bangkuai has called on Sabah and the federal government to leverage their strong working relationship to resolve the state’s 40 per cent revenue entitlement following the latest court development.

Commenting on the Court of Appeal’s decision to allow the federal government’s application for a stay of the High Court order, Joniston said the focus now should now be on constructive engagement rather than confrontation.

The High Court had earlier ordered both parties to review the special grant for the ‘Lost Years’ and reach an agreement within 180 days to facilitate payment of Sabah’s 40 per cent entitlement, pending the federal government’s appeal.

“We should leverage the good relations often mentioned by the Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and the Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor.

“If that relationship is strong, then we should use it when discussing what is best for Sabah,” he said.

Joniston made these remarks during the launch of Celcom Timur (Sabah) Sdn Bhd’s new corporate identity, where he represented the Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor.

The Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister stressed that Sabah’s development is closely linked to national growth.

“If Sabah progresses, then Malaysia progresses as well.

“Let us leverage these ties through mutual understanding and strong friendship so that solutions can be found,” he added.

Joniston said the state government respects the court’s decision, even though it had hoped for a quicker resolution.

“As the Chief Minister has stated, we accept the decision, although we had hoped that a matter could be resolved sooner.

“Naturally, questions remain as to when the High Court’s decision can be implemented,” Joniston added.

However, he emphasised that Sabah’s constitutional right to the 40 per cent revenue remains unaffected.

“What is important is that the 40 per cent entitlement is intact.

“It is not that it will not be given. The issue now is the mechanism of payment and related processes,” he said.

Joniston noted that ongoing discussions between Sabah and Putrajaya must continue in earnest to iron out the details.

“These discussions are already ongoing, but what we want to see is a solution reached as soon as possible,” he said.

The people of Sabah are eager for a comprehensive and timely resolution, despite the complexities involved.

“This reflects the sentiment of the people of Sabah, who want a conclusive resolution. There are still issues to be addressed before implementation, but we want to see serious efforts in that direction,” he said.

Joniston reiterated that the state government remains committed to safeguarding what rightfully belongs to Sabah.

“The key issue now is how soon can this be resolved. This is a complex matter, but cooperation is crucial,” he said.

Joniston also cautioned against framing the issue as a conflict.

“We should not create the impression that we want to fight.

“The Chief Minister is firm in ensuring that what is rightfully ours, as enshrined in the Constitution, is fulfilled,” he added.