Kota Kinabalu: The Sabah Action Body Advocating Rights (Sabar) called for clear timelines, measurable progress and greater transparency in ongoing negotiations over Sabah’s 40pc special revenue entitlement.
The NGO expressed strong support for issues raised by Nominated Assemblyman Roger Chin during his debate on the motion of thanks for the Yang di-Pertua Negeri’s policy address at the State Legislative Assembly.
Sabar said the High Court judgment on 40pc Sabah revenue grant affirmed Sabah’s constitutional rights, and both Federal and State governments must now move beyond general assurances towards concrete action.
“Negotiations should not continue indefinitely without milestones, deadlines or measurable targets,” it said in a statement, while also urging authorities to provide regular public updates on discussions since the October 2025 ruling.
This includes details on meetings held, progress achieved, any cancellations, as well as a clear roadmap and timeline towards resolving the long-standing issue.
Sabar also echoed Roger’s suggestion that if no agreement is reached within a reasonable timeframe, the process should shift to a more structured mechanism, such as an independent assessment.
On implementation, Sabah proposed that payments for more recent years, starting from 2025, be initiated immediately while historical arrears are being finalised. It said current entitlements should not be delayed as relevant financial data is already available.
Sabar added that it conducted its own calculations on the amount due and is ready to assist the Government in determining an agreed figure.
It also welcomed proposals to improve Sabah’s fiscal framework, including revenue collection at source, describing it as a key long-term reform to enhance transparency and administrative efficiency.
Calling for bipartisan support, Sabar urged all State Assembly members to unite on the matter, stressing that Sabah’s revenue entitlement is a constitutional issue that transcends political differences.
“Every delay without a clear timeline prolongs uncertainty and risks affecting development planning, including the implementation of Sabah Maju Jaya 2.0,” it said.
Sabar emphasised that decisive action, transparency and political will are now needed to resolve the issue, adding Sabahans have waited decades for a fair settlement.
