By Daniel John Jambun Borneo’s Plight in Malaysia Foundation (BoPiMaFo)
KOTA KINABALU: Borneo’s Plight in Malaysia Foundation (BoPiMaFo) expresses strong condemnation over reports that Members of Parliament are being asked to contribute funds for a maritime boundary lawsuit involving Sabah.
Let us be blunt:
If a government cannot even fund the defence of its own territory, what exactly is it governing?
1. This Is Not Charity — This Is Sovereignty
The maritime boundary dispute is not a side issue.
It concerns:
Sovereign rights
Control over resources
Billions in potential revenue
The long-term future of Sabah
And yet, instead of taking full responsibility, we are now hearing calls to “chip in”.
Sabah’s sovereignty is not something to be financed through donations.
2. An Insult to Sabahans
For decades, Sabah’s resources have flowed outward to sustain the federation.
Now, when Sabah’s rights must be defended, the response is to pass the hat around?
This is not just poor governance — it is an insult.
Sabahans are not asking for favours.
They are demanding that the government do its job.
3. This Is a Failure of Leadership
Let us call this what it is:
A failure of responsibility. A failure of leadership.
The Federal Government has the resources.
The State Government has the mandate.
What is missing is the political will to take ownership.
Instead, responsibility is diluted, shifted, and informally outsourced.
A serious government does not crowdsource sovereignty.
4. Dangerous Precedent
If this is allowed, what comes next?
Will national security be funded by donations?
Will border enforcement be crowd-funded?
Will constitutional rights depend on who can pay?
This sets a dangerous and unacceptable precedent.
5. BoPiMaFo’s Firm Position
We state clearly:
1. The maritime boundary case must be fully funded by the government — without hesitation
2. There must be clear accountability on who is leading and responsible
3. The government must demonstrate seriousness, not improvisation
4. Any attempt to shift responsibility onto individuals must cease immediately
> Sabah is not a charity case. Sabah is a partner in this federation.
Defending Sabah’s maritime rights is not optional.
It is a duty.
And if the government cannot fulfil even this basic duty, then serious questions must be asked about its priorities — and its credibility.
“Do not ask Sabahans to fund what the government is duty-bound to defend.”
“Sovereignty is not for sale — and it is not for collection.”
