Delay in Sabah revenue rights sparks backlash over lack of urgency

KOTA KINABALU (April 6): Luyang assemblyman Samuel Wong has expressed deep disappointment over the court’s decision allowing the federal government to delay the implementation of the review on Sabah’s 40 per cent revenue entitlement.

The matter has raised concerns over the lack of political will and urgency in resolving the long-standing issue.

Wong said the matter, which should resolved long ago, has been repeatedly delayed for decades, despite the High Court previously setting a clear timeline for its implementation.

“Sabahans have waited far too long.

“Since the formation of Malaysia, Sabah has consistently contributed to the nation’s growth and development.

“Yet when it comes to our rightful entitlements, we are always told to wait,” he said in a statement on Monday.

Wong stressed that the 40 per cent revenue entitlement is not an additional demand, but a constitutional right rooted in the foundation of Malaysia, and should therefore be treated with seriousness and implemented without further delay.

Questioning whether there is genuine political will from the federal government, Wong said the latest development reflects a lack of urgency.

“From what we see today, there is no sense of urgency at all,” he said.

According to Wong, without a clear timeline and firm commitment, the issue risks becoming yet another prolonged ‘waiting game’, a situation Sabahans are all too familiar with.

“We are not asking for special treatment.

“We are asking for what is rightfully ours. If Sabah is truly an equal partner in this federation, then our rights must not be continuously postponed,” he added.

Wong called on the federal government to act decisively, honour its commitments and demonstrate sincerity in resolving the matter.

He stressed that the delay is not merely a legal or administrative issue, but one that directly impacts the daily lives of Sabahans.

“For decades, Sabah has continued to face fundamental challenges such as poor infrastructure, inconsistent water and electricity supply, under-resourced schools, and strained healthcare services.

“These are not new problems, but long-standing realities that people deal with every day.

“When rightful revenues are delayed, it is ultimately the people who bear the consequences.

“Sabahans are not asking for sympathy, we are asking for action,” he stressed.

Wong called for concrete action to be taken without further delay.

“The waiting time is over, Sabah needs to see real action now,” he added.