Kota Kinabalu: The Malaysian Volunteer Corps (Rela) Honorary Members Association Sabah Chapter welcomed Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s assurance on implementing the 40 per cent revenue transfer to Sabah but cautioned that the commitment must not remain mere political rhetoric.
Its President, Honorary Brigadier General Dato’ Jerry Ambuting Mohd Said, said Sabahans had waited far too long for the resolution of this issue, which is enshrined under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).
“The results of the 17th state election clearly signal that Sabahans want the Federal Government to expedite implementation of rights that have been delayed for decades.
The Prime Minister’s assurance is welcome, but Sabahans hope it is not merely a statement to calm the situation. We don’t want to hear more excuses or fresh postponements,” he said in a statement, Sunday.
Jerry said the Prime Minister’s explanation that the first meeting on payment methods would be held before mid-January 2026 is a positive step, but reminded that Sabah had waited over six decades for this claim to be resolved.
“Four Cabinet vacancies are no excuse to delay implementation of matters already enshrined in MA63. Sabahans want a clear implementation schedule and timely repayment,” he said.
He added that the recent Sabah state election results showed that Sabahans are increasingly firm in demanding State rights, including the 40 per cent revenue entitlement, electricity power transfer and other MA63 matters.
“This is a very strong message. The people demand action, not delays. If the Federal Government is truly committed, then implementation of Sabah’s rights must be expedited and not suspended with technical or political excuses,” he stressed.
Jerry said he is confident that Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor will continue to play a crucial role in the technical committee to ensure Sabah’s rights are fully restored.
“We want to see synergy between the State and Federal Governments translated into tangible decisions. Sabah has been patient long enough,” he said.
He hoped next January’s meeting will produce a firm, systematic and consistent payment mechanism for the benefit of Sabahans.
