Upko reiterates firm stance on 40% revenue right
Published on: Sunday, August 11, 2024
By: Sherell Jeffrey
Ewon and others at the convention.
PENAMPANG: United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (Upko) President Datuk Ewon Benedick reiterated the party's firm and official stance that Sabah's 40 per cent right to Federal revenue differs from the emolument and development allocations in the Federal Government's annual Budget.
"In the sharing of Federal revenue in Sabah, the 40 per cent right is a condition set during the formation of Malaysia," he said in his policy speech at the Upko National Convention at the Sabah Cultural Centre here Sunday.
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"This 40 per cent right differs from the emolument and development allocations set in the Federal Government's annual Budget for Sabah.
"This will always be Upko's firm and official stance."
Ewon said that 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 he is working to secure a particular discussion on the 40 per cent right and the review of Sabah's special grant before the Malaysia Day celebration.
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"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 organise and facilitate a discussion as this implementation is a Government-to-Government matter.
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"In Federal Cabinet meetings, I can voice Upko's stance and views, but I cannot represent the State Government's stance.
"That is why I want to carry out my trust and responsibility by facilitating consultation platforms using existing structures," he said.
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