Hiew…the promised revenue sharing has not materialized since 1974/75.
Nikko Fabian
KOTA KINABALU : Local prominent politician urged the current state government to stand firm in demanding the rightful 40% revenue sharing for Sabah.
Making the call, former Kota Kinabalu MP Datuk Hiew King Cheu emphasized that it is not only the duty of Sabah government to manage administration but also to safeguard the well-being and future of the Sabahans.
In a statement posted in social
media platform, he strongly urged the government to protect and advocate for the rights of the people, emphasizing that those in power should not take actions that harm the very citizens who entrusted them with authority.
The issue at hand revolves around the long-standing demand for Sabah’s 40% revenue sharing, a right enshrined in the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).
Despite repeated assurances from the Sabah government to address this matter with the Federal Government, Hiew noticed the promised revenue sharing has not materialized since 1974/75.
Additionally, he expressed disappointment that the original agreement terms have been altered to a “Special Allocation,” deviating from the intended purpose of the 40% revenue sharing for Sabah’s economic development.
Highlighting the unfairness of this situation under the spirit of MA63, Hiew questioned the validity of the agreement if its crucial components, such as the 40% revenue sharing, are not honored.
Hence, he suggested that if the agreement is no longer recognized, it should be declared null and void, prompting discussions for a new arrangement that aligns with Sabah’s interests.
Hiew proposed a collaborative effort between the Sabah Government and the Sabah Law Society (SLS) to intensify the fight for the 40% revenue sharing.
He emphasized the importance of unity and strength in reclaiming what rightfully belongs to Sabah, stressing that this endeavor is a fundamental responsibility that the authorities owe to the people of Sabah.
The said call for the Sabah government to stand firm and collaborate with the SLS underscores the importance of upholding Sabah’s rights and pursuing equitable treatment in revenue sharing.
“The future of Sabah hinges on the actions and decisions of those in power, urging a proactive approach to safeguarding the state’s interests,” Hiew concluded.
