Kota Kinabalu: Deputy Chief Minister cum Industrial Development, Entrepreneurship and Transport Minister Datuk Ewon Benedick said Sabah deserves diesel subsidies as the state is among the country’s main oil and gas producers.
He said Sabah’s oil and gas revenues have long contributed to the development of other states that do not possess these resources.
“We appreciate the Federal Government’s decision to provide diesel subsidies to Sabah. I was involved in that decision when I was in the Federal Cabinet.
He was questioning those who dispute the provision of diesel subsidies to Sabah.
“If anyone questions, first ask who produces the oil and gas. Sabah is a producer and has the right to know what is returned to its people.
“Since the Petroleum Development Act was enforced, Sabah has lost its largest resources, namely oil and gas. I defend the decision to provide diesel subsidies and other subsidies needed by the people of Sabah because we are entitled to them.
“We have subsidised development elsewhere, so return what Sabah should receive that has been lost since certain laws were introduced, especially the Petroleum Development Act,” he said.
“That is why Sabah deserves its returns, not only in terms of development but also in ensuring that the resources are used for domestic needs within Sabah,” he said.
Ewon was met by reporters after officiating the Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebration organised by Putatan Upko at Dewan Sri Putatan on Thursday.
The Upko President said it is time for the Federal Government to prioritise domestic needs, particularly in resource-producing states.
“In my view, it is time for the Federal Government to review how domestic needs can be prioritised. Sabah, as a region that produces and contributes oil and gas, deserves to receive returns from those resources,” he said.
Commenting on the reduction of the Budi95 subsidy quota from 300 to 200 litres, he said the Federal Government should provide further clarification on the move, while acknowledging that conflicts in West Asia have impacted global oil prices.
“It is true that war affects global oil prices, but perhaps it is time for Malaysia to consider how oil extracted from this country is used for domestic needs,” he said.
He also voiced concern over potential disruptions in the supply of essential goods, particularly food, which largely depends on sea transport.
“Not only industry players, but the public are also worried about daily food supply as the main mode of transport via sea has been affected.
“This is why we promote the message of cooperation through celebrations like this. In countries far from here, wars occur due to differences,” he said.
He noted that politically, Sabah, Sarawak and Peninsular Malaysia have differences and unresolved rights claims.
However, these do not undermine the spirit of cooperation among regions in Malaysia.
