Kota Kinabalu: Tamparuli Assemblyman, Datuk Seri Wilfred Madius Tangau, has called on both Government and Opposition representatives to unite in pursuing Sabah’s 40 per cent revenue entitlement.
He said the matter should not be politicised but treated as a collective agenda linked to the State’s dignity, development and overall wellbeing.
Speaking during the debate on the State Government Policy Address at the 17th Sabah Legislative Assembly sitting on Monday, he said many of the challenges faced by Sabah stem from its limited financial position.
“These include delays in development, limited job opportunities, infrastructure weaknesses and food security concerns,” he said.
“All the issues I raised, investment, logistics and food supply, point back to one main factor, which is funding.”
Madius questioned how long Sabah would continue to depend on external support to drive its development, noting that while the State has strong growth potential, weaknesses in implementation and reliance on federal funding have slowed progress.
He cited the Palm Oil Industrial Cluster (POIC) in Lahad Datu, which continues to face constraints such as inadequate treated water supply, logistical limitations and delays linked to financing processes.
He said delays in approving funding for upgrading barge facilities had caused project costs to increase from RM8 million to RM16 million.
According to him, such delays reflect how bureaucratic processes and dependence on federal financing can affect investor confidence and hinder development.
On food security, Madius said Sabah currently produces about 20 per cent of its rice requirements, highlighting the need for stronger financial capacity to support agriculture and food development policies.
“If the 40 per cent right is returned as ruled by the court, that is where Sabah’s dignity and financial strength lie,” he said.
“With that, Sabah can build, lead and stand on its own without having to depend on others.”
He said Sabahans have waited too long for change and now expect concrete action from leaders regardless of political alignment.
Madius urged all elected representatives to set aside differences and act as a unified front in pursuing the State’s rights.
