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KOTA KINABALU: Datuk Mustapha Sakmud, the minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Sabah and Sarawak Affairs), has emphasised that the stay on the claim for 40 per cent of Sabah’s revenue does not equate to a rejection of the state’s entitlements.
He explained that the postponement aims to allow both parties to enhance the necessary data prior to finalising any decisions.
“This does not negate the right to 40 per cent. We are not contesting that right, but we require additional time to elaborate on the relevant data,” he stated at a press conference during the Aidilfitri celebration for the Sepanggar Parliament on Saturday.
He noted that the data collection process has been in progress since 1974, necessitating close collaboration between the Ministry of Finance and the state government.
“Consider that we need to examine data from 1974 to the present. Hence, this delay is essential to ensure that all information is precise,” he remarked.
Mustapha also pledged to facilitate coordination between the state government and the Federation to ensure effective negotiations.
He mentioned that a meeting with the Sabah Minister of Finance, Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun, is scheduled to further discuss the issue.
“This postponement provides ample time for both parties to present accurate information so that the decisions made are not hurried,” he added.
He further stated that his ministry will persist in coordinating discussions through technical platforms and the MA63 Steering Committee, which is chaired by the Prime Minister.
