Kota Kinabalu: The State Government on Tuesday expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and the Federal Cabinet for its historic decision not to appeal the High Court ruling reaffirming Sabah’s constitutional right to the 40 per cent special grant.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Haji Noor said the decision demonstrates that the Prime Minister understands Sabah’s expectations and aspirations, and reflects his genuine commitment to uphold what is guaranteed under the Federal Constitution.
“In my meetings and engagements with the Prime Minister, I have conveyed the State Government’s firm position that Sabah’s constitutional rights must be respected, honoured and fulfilled.
“The decision not to appeal reflects the strong working relationship between the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS)-led State Government and Putrajaya,” he said.
Hajiji added that honouring the court’s decision represents a defining step toward narrowing Sabah’s development gap with Peninsular Malaysia, particularly in rural areas where infrastructure, agriculture and basic amenities continue to lag behind.
“Sabahans have waited long enough. What is needed now is firm action and genuine political will to honour and implement the 40 per cent entitlement,” he said.
The Chief Minister reiterated that the State Government remains ready to engage constructively with the Federal Government to implement the court’s directive to review and finalise the agreement, while calling on the people to continue supporting the Prime Minister’s leadership.
