Sabah needs comprehensive resolution of all MA63 issues, says Keningau MP

KOTA KINABALU (Feb 11): Sabah needs a renewed and comprehensive commitment to resolving all matters related to the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), and not merely focus on the 16 outstanding issues, said Keningau MP Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Jeffrey Kitingan.

He said such commitment must also address matters that have yet to be brought to the fore, including the state’s borders, Article 1(3) of the Federal Constitution, revenues due to Sabah and Sarawak under the Tenth Schedule, Article 8 of MA63, and other related provisions.

In a statement, Dr Jeffrey expressed deep concern over what he described as the slow pace and lack of assertiveness in addressing MA63 issues, particularly the 40 per cent net revenue entitlement and oil and gas matters.

He said mere public statements were insufficient and called for a concrete and structured action plan guided by the MA63 framework and the Inter-Governmental Committee (IGC) Report.

Failure to act promptly, he warned, risks prolonging these issues for another 63 years.

“Immediate action is needed. For example, to implement the court’s decision on the payment of the 40 per cent Net Revenue rights as enshrined in Articles 112C and 112D of the Federal Constitution,” he said.

He stressed that these revenues are essential to finance Sabah’s development and meet the basic needs of its people, including welfare, healthcare and education.

He added that this would also enable the state government to better develop Sabah’s economic and trade potential, upgrade basic infrastructure and ensure proper development for its people.

“Unless we adopt a new results-oriented attitude and decision-making with regular guided meetings, we will continue to go around in the same circle as we have for the past 63 years,” he said.

Dr Jeffrey played a key role as the Sabah government’s representative in the MA63 Special Council (MKMA63) from 2020 to 2022 and in the current MA63 Implementation Action Council (MTPMA63) prior to the state elections.

He had consistently raised Sabah’s claims, including the 40 per cent net revenue entitlement, oil and gas matters, an increase in petroleum sales tax, cash payments in lieu of oil royalty, the return of maritime jurisdiction rights, and the implementation of consultation before action as provided under MA63.

He assured that he would continue to advocate for Sabah’s rights and serve as a “watchdog”, adding that he has openly stated Sabah’s position and criticised what he described as the slow implementation of MA63-related matters.