Upko urges swift action on Sabah’s 40 pct revenue rights

KOTA KINABALU (March 11): United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (Upko) president, Datuk Ewon Benedick, has called for immediate action to enforce the Kota Kinabalu High Court’s landmark ruling affirming Sabah’s constitutional right to 40 per cent of federal revenue.

The court, in its October 17, 2025 decision, declared the federal government’s failure to remit Sabah’s share since 1974 unlawful.

It also ordered a review of the revenue within 90 days and a final agreement within 180 days.

Ewon stressed that Upko will oppose any moves that could delay compliance.

“The Federal Attorney’s application regarding the 40 per cent payment should be challenged.

“The application concerns the execution of the court’s decision. Within 180 days, there must be agreement between the federal government and the Sabah government on the repayment of the 40 per cent.

“I have given my view that Upko’s position is that this must be challenged. We do not want to see delays in the implementation of what has been decided by the court,” he said in a statement.

Ewon added that a formal response from the State Attorney-General is expected, but Upko has already voiced its insistence that the federal government honour Sabah’s rights without delay.