Sabah Umno has reiterated its unwavering stance alongside the people of Sabah that the State’s claim to its 40 per cent tax revenue rights must be resolved without further delay, even as legal proceedings continue.
Sabah Umno Chairman Datuk Jafry Ariffin said the rights in question cannot be sidelined regardless of ongoing court processes, as the matter carries significant implications for Sabah’s development.
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“Even though we are bound by government procedures and respect the court process, this claim is Sabah’s rightful entitlement and must be fulfilled,” he said.
Jafry noted that the Court of Appeal had granted leave for the appeal to be heard following an application by the Attorney General.
“We respect the appeal process, but in terms of principle, this right must still be honoured,” he said.
He said the matter is enshrined under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) and is not merely an Umno cause … it enjoys broad support from the public, other political parties, non-governmental organisations and the Sabah Government.
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“This claim is important in helping accelerate infrastructure development in Sabah, which continues to lag behind other states.”
On whether the issue should be tabled as a motion at Umno branch and division meetings, Jafry said that the decision rests with delegates.
“We cannot direct them, but typically branches or divisions will bring this issue to a higher level for debate,” he said.
As a party forming the Sabah Government, he added, Sabah Umno will continue to press for a resolution consistent with the spirit and content of MA63.
