KOTA BELUD. The National People’s Organisation of Sabah (PERPADUAN) has expressed its full support for Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s determination to finalise Sabah’s claim regarding the 40% state revenue, in line with the spirit and provisions of the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).
PERPADUAN President Gundohing Jack Giau said that the remarks made recently at the University of Malaysia Sabah (UMS) reflect the Federal Government’s commitment to resolve this historical issue comprehensively, based on transparent negotiations, factual evidence, and the mutual interests of the Federation and the State of Sabah.
PERPADUAN believes that the negotiation approach based on “in-depth information” articulated by the Prime Minister is appropriate, aligning with the need to ensure that any decisions made are sustainable, legally valid, and can be implemented without dispute in the future, he said.
In this context, Jack emphasised that the success of the negotiations heavily relies on the preparedness of the Sabah State Government.
He said this in a statement here today.
Therefore, Jack urged for a comprehensive coordination to be implemented immediately, involving technical, fiscal, and legal aspects, including the preparation of revenue data, claims records, and a comprehensive and structured constitutional argument.
“PERPADUAN also believes that past weaknesses in advocating for state rights should serve as a lesson.
“The 40% claim is not merely a financial issue, but a foundation for fiscal justice, strengthening state autonomy, and restoring rights that have been enshrined since the formation of Malaysia,” he said.
In this regard, he stated that the existing momentum should not be wasted.
“Close cooperation between the Federal Government and the Sabah State Government must be strengthened through a professional, non-emotional, and results-oriented approach,” he added.
