TAWAU: The Federal Government’s decision not to appeal the Kota Kinabalu High Court ruling affirming Sabah’s right to 40 per cent of the state’s net revenue has been hailed as a major development.
Sri Tanjong PH-DAP candidate Philip Yap described the move as a demonstration of respect for the spirit of the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) and the Federal Constitution.
“This also reflects the sincerity and commitment of the Madani Government in recognising Sabah’s historical rights,” he said.
Philip said the fight for the return of 40 per cent of net revenue is a long-standing demand of the people of Sabah.
He noted that PH, along with DAP, played a key role throughout the various stages of this struggle.
He recalled that as early as June 2022, PH Sabah, including DAP lawmakers such as Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe, Datuk Chan Foong Hin, Vivian Wong, and Jannie Lasimbang, initiated a judicial review on Sabah’s 40 per cent entitlement – the foundation for the High Court decision.
“After the formation of the Madani Government at the end of 2022, DAP Sabah decided to continue this effort through official government channels and internal mechanisms to avoid any conflict of interest,” he said.
Philip said DAP Sabah not only fully supported the legal action by the Sabah Law Society (SLS) but also attended several court hearings to show solidarity.
Following the High Court ruling, DAP Sabah was among the first to urge the Federal Government not to appeal, in order to respect the spirit of MA63.
The party subsequently passed a unanimous resolution calling on the Federal Government to honour the court’s decision.
This resolution was later endorsed by the DAP Central Executive Committee (CEC) and presented by five DAP federal ministers at Cabinet level.
“Today’s decision by the Federal Government not to appeal is the result of sustained efforts by many parties. It reflects both the integrity of the Madani Government and recognition of Sabah’s historical rights,” he said.
Philip emphasised that whether in or out of government, DAP Sabah remains steadfast in defending the constitutional rights and interests of the state’s people.
“We will ensure Sabah receives the full 40 per cent of net revenue as enshrined in the Constitution and MA63, while monitoring the next stages of negotiation to ensure transparency, professionalism, and full implementation,” he said.
Philip also expressed gratitude to the people of Sabah for their continued trust and support for DAP, pledging that the party will always prioritise the welfare of the rakyat.
He said DAP Sabah will continue to fight for the full and transparent implementation of the 40 per cent entitlement and urged the public to give a strong mandate to PH-DAP in the upcoming state election.
“We want a capable and responsible state government that can work with the Federal Government to realise this historic right for the benefit of all Sabahans,” he said.
