Sabah DAP disappointed over stay on 40 pct revenue ruling

KOTA KINABALU (April 7): Sabah Democratic Action Party (DAP) has expressed disappointment over the Court of Appeal’s decision to grant a stay on the enforcement of Sabah’s 40 per cent net revenue entitlement, describing it as a setback in efforts to resolve the long-standing issue.

State DAP chairman Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe said the development prolongs a matter that has dragged on for decades.

“This continued delay effectively brings us back to square one. Sabahans will now see little distinction between the Madani government and previous administrations on this issue,” he said in a statement.

Phoong stressed that the 40 per cent entitlement is clearly enshrined in the Federal Constitution and should not be subjected to indefinite delay or uncertainty.

“What is most concerning is the lack of clarity moving forward. Sabahans deserve more than general assurances — they deserve a clear and firm timeline on when and how this constitutional right will be implemented,” he said.

He said it is no longer acceptable for the matter to remain open-ended without a definitive resolution, urging the federal government to provide a clear roadmap with specific timelines.

“This must include transparent engagement with the Sabah government and all relevant stakeholders to ensure progress is measurable and accountable,” he said.

Phoong added that resolving the issue is crucial to uphold constitutional guarantees and strengthen Sabah’s fiscal capacity for development.

“This issue must be addressed without further delay. It is about restoring fairness and ensuring Sabah receives what it rightfully deserves,” he said.

He also reminded the Prime Minister and the Madani government that the 40 per cent entitlement was a commitment under Pakatan Harapan’s 15th General Election (GE15) manifesto.

“Any failure to honour this promise will come at a significant political cost,” he said.

Phoong reiterated that Sabah DAP remains committed to defending the state’s rights under the Federal Constitution and the Malaysia Agreement 1963.