Contribute RM5,000 each to back Sabar in continental shelf case, Tuaran MP urges Sabah elected reps

KOTA KINABALU (March 19): Tuaran MP Datuk Seri Panglima Wilfred Madius Tangau has called on all Sabah elected representatives to unite in contributing RM5,000 each to Sabah Action Body Advocating Rights (Sabar) to help fund legal costs in pursuing the state’s continental shelf rights.

He said the people-led non-governmental organisation (NGO) requires RM500,000 by this April 30 to continue its legal challenge at the Federal Court.

“This legal action aims to reclaim Sabah’s ownership rights over the seabed, continental shelf, and the natural resources contained within.

“The rights to these resources were legally established as early as 1954 under The North Borneo (Alteration of Boundaries) Order in Council, prior to the formation of the Federation of Malaysia.

“However, the state’s control over its maritime territory has been narrowed following the implementation of the Territorial Sea Act 2012 by the federal government,” he said in a post on Facebook.

Madius, who is also the Tamparuli assemblyman, outlined a practical solution to address the NGO’s financial constraints if Sabah leaders set aside political differences.

“In Sabah, we have a total of 111 representatives across various levels, comprising 25 MPs, 73 assemblymen, seven senators, and six nominated assemblymen.

“If all 111 Honourable Members from Sabah contribute RM5,000 each, we would raise RM555,000.

“This amount would not only exceed the required target but also serve as strong evidence of our solidarity in defending the state’s interests,” he explained.

Madius also commended the early initiative shown by Kudat MP Datuk Verdon Bahanda and Ranau MP Datuk Jonathan Yasin, who had proactively contributed RM5,000 each to the campaign.

He stressed that Sabar, as a people-driven group unaffiliated with any political party or corporate entity, has shown positive progress after securing legal standing (locus standi).

He said overcoming this initial hurdle enables the group to bring the case to court on behalf of the people of Sabah.

As such, Madius invited fellow leaders to support the effort to ensure that the state’s resource wealth can be reclaimed and utilised for the development of infrastructure, schools, and hospitals in Sabah.

“In addition, the fundraising campaign is also open to members of the public who wish to contribute towards legal representation fees and court research costs.

“Public contributions can be channelled directly to the registered trustee account of Sabar at CIMB (8010739874) or via DuitNow QR (SABAR-QR),” he said.