KOTA BELUD: Sabah Chief Minister, Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor, has reiterated the unwavering commitment of the state government to advocating for Sabah’s rights, which includes the return of 40 percent of the state’s revenue collected by the federal government.
He dismissed allegations from the opposition suggesting that his government has been inactive or indifferent on this matter, emphasising that such claims are baseless and intended to undermine the state government.
Hajiji highlighted that the state government consistently raises the issue of Sabah’s rights, whether in Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) meetings or Cabinet sessions.
“We hear various stories from external sources attempting to undermine our efforts to assert our rights. However, they are unaware that I actively participate in MA63 meetings chaired by the Prime Minister,” he stated.
“I unequivocally express our demands, including the return of 40 percent of tax revenue to Sabah. This is crystal clear, so there should be no insinuations about the state government remaining silent.”
“We voice our concerns during meetings, and these discussions are documented, not only during the tenure of the 10th Prime Minister but also under Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin and Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri’s leadership.”
“This is the message I convey (regarding Sabah’s rights), and it is verifiable in the minutes of MA63 meetings,” he remarked during the Land Grant Handover Ceremony for the Children of Sabah (PANTAS) and Sabah Maju Jaya Friendly House (SMJ) for the Pintasan state constituency at Padang Belia Kampung Pantai Emas on Sunday.
Hajiji stressed that achieving Sabah’s rights necessitates unity among all stakeholders to streamline the process, especially when there are factions not fully supporting the government’s endeavours.
“In our pursuit of these rights, unity is crucial, and I sincerely hope for solidarity to make our demands more effective, not only in asserting our rights but also in ensuring that our voice is heard and respected by the Federal Government,” he added.
