KOTA KINABALU: – Datuk James Ligunjang says the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah Government has been actively addressing the issue of the state’s 40% revenue entitlement.
The former state lawmaker for Petagas said the State Government under the leadership of Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Haji Noor is showing significant progress compared to previous administrations.
In a statement Thursday, Ligunjang pointed out that in 2023, an interim payment of RM300 million was secured, with a final settlement expected in July 2024.
“This contrasts sharply with the annual RM53.4 million received by past state governments, which was deemed insufficient given the substantial revenue generated by Sabah for the Federal Government,” he said
He added that critics claiming that the State Government is neglecting Sabah’s entitlement are misinformed.
“The presence of Datuk Dr Jeffrey Kitingan in the GRS government, known for his dedication to upholding Federal Government compliance with MA63, adds a strong advocate for the State’s rights,” he said.
“Furthermore, Datuk Masidi Manjun’s recent announcement regarding the potential invocation of Article 112D (6) if this year’s payment falls short underscores the GRS government’s firm commitment to enforcing the Federal Government’s responsibilities under MA63 and the Federal Constitution.”
Ligunjang, who is also a Sabah Justice of Peace, said allegations that the GRS State Government is unsupportive of the Sabah Law Society’s efforts for a judicial review on the 40% entitlement are unfounded and without merit.
