Kota Kinabalu: Progressive Democratic Party (PDP) Senior Vice-President Wong Soon Koh lauded Upko President Datuk Ewon Benedict’s courageous resignation as a federal minister, describing it as a pivotal moment for Sabah and Sarawak to unite in their fight for autonomy and rights.
Wong said Ewon’s decision sets a powerful example for leaders in both states, demonstrating what it means to stand firm in defending their people’s rights and dignity.
“This is courage, integrity, and a matter of principle and love for the people,” said Wong, stressing that Ewon’s resignation highlights the long-ignored issue of Sabah’s 40 per cent tax revenue entitlement.
The veteran Sarawakian politician asserted that the Federal Government’s repeated neglect of Borneo’s concerns has reached a breaking point.
“Enough is enough. Empty promises. Endless talks. Action is what we need now,” he declared.
Wong called for a unified front between Sarawak and Sabah to demand what rightfully belongs to them.
“Unity is our strength. Autonomy cannot be treated lightly. The old ways will not work anymore — small tokens and empty gestures will not silence us while our land, our resources, and our rights are taken away,” he said.
While acknowledging Sarawak’s continued commitment to dialogue and negotiation, Wong emphasized that patience alone is not sufficient.
“Patience alone is not enough. We must act,” he stressed.
He urged both states to follow Sabah’s example in securing its 40 percent entitlement through legal means, adding that Sarawak must also demand fairness and justice without delay or insincerity.
“Like Ewon has done, we must reject the small candies meant to silence us. We must stand tall and refuse to be ignored,” Wong said.
Concluding his statement, Wong described Ewon’s resignation as “a spark” that could ignite a broader movement of unity, dignity, and determination across Sabah and Sarawak — a call for autonomy to be recognised as an inherent right, not merely a request.
