Kota Kinabalu: The State Government must come up with a payment formula to move forward and say this was what Sabah was entitled to, according to Parti Solidarity Tanahairku (Star Sabah) President Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan.
“If there is no formula, the Federal Government may say that according to their calculation the figure is like this or that. There is provision for an independent accessor but it has never been used,” he said after officiating the United Borneo Front’s 13th Anniversary at Sokid Villa, here, Saturday.
“I have a feeling that they would not be able to pay what we want because they will use the excuse of financial situation and the needs of the State,” he said.
“But according to the Constitution, the State Government must come up with the proposal to say this is according to the formula and what we are entitled to.
“It is critical that we present the list. That is why Sabah and Sarawak now have representation in the Inland Revenue Board, so we can see how much money they have collected. I hope they don’t hide it,” he said, adding Sabah should receive billions, not just RM300 million.
He did, however, state that he is more at peace now that the Federal Government is being held accountable for ensuring that the RM300 million is paid within 12 months.
“By next year, at the very least by August. We must hold them accountable because this was documented in the minutes of the technical committee meeting,” he said.
He also expressed his optimism over Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof’s reassignment to Sabah and Sarawak Affairs.
“We are going forward because now the person in charge there is the Deputy Prime Minister,” he said.
He said entrusting this task to Fadillah is also wise, citing Fadillah’s experience and understanding as Chairman of the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) Technical Committee.
In another matter, Jeffrey, speaking in his personal capacity, is in favour of renaming the position of Chief Minister to Premier, as Sarawak has done.
“The status of Sabah and Sarawak is the same. We should have a common title. I think that is proper so that Sabah and Sarawak are seen as partners to the Federation,” he said.
