PENAMPANG: Upko President Datuk Ewon reiterated the party’s firm and official stance that Sabah’s 40 per cent right to Federal revenue is different from the emolument and development allocations provided in the Federal Government’s annual Budget.
“In the sharing of Federal revenue in Sabah, the 40 per cent right is a condition that was set during the formation of Malaysia.
This 40 per cent right is different from the emolument and development allocations that have been set in the Federal Government’s annual budget for Sabah,” he said.
“This will be Upko’s firm and official stance at all times,” he said, adding the RM16 billion allocation for Federal development and emoluments in Sabah for 2024 is very welcome, but it should be considered separate from the 40 per cent right.
He also said that he is working to secure a special discussion on the 40 per cent right and the review of Sabah’s special grant before the Malaysia Day celebration.
“I have discussed with the Deputy Prime Minister and the Chief Minister of Sabah to set a date for this special discussion, which I propose to be held before this year’s Malaysia Day celebration.
“This is my contribution towards finalising this 40 per cent right by trying to organize and facilitate a special discussion because this implementation is a Government-to-Government matter.
“In Federal Cabinet meetings, I can voice Upko’s stance and views, but I cannot represent the State Government’s stance.
“That’s why I want to carry out my trust and responsibility by facilitating consultation platforms using existing structures,” he said.
The convention was attended by 600 delegates from 23 divisions across the country, including four divisions from Perak.
