KIULU: The Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS)-led State Government has never remained silent in fighting for Sabah’s 40 per cent revenue entitlement as enshrined in the Federal Constitution, said Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister Datuk Joniston Bangkuai.
He said the people should not be influenced by the opposition’s narrative claiming that the GRS government has failed or is not serious in pursuing the matter.
Advertisement
X500px(H).jpg)
According to him, the state government’s approach, which prioritises negotiations, engagement, and harmonious working relations with the Federal Government, is beginning to show positive results.
“This is evident from the increase in Sabah’s Special Grant, which rose from RM53 million during the Warisan administration to RM600 million under the current GRS government,” he said.
He said this during the Kaamatan Festival celebration and engagement session with representatives of the Native Court and village heads in Kiulu, Thursday.
Joniston, who is also GRS Information Chief, said the state government under Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor had also signed the Commercial Collaboration Agreement (CCA) with Petronas, describing it as a strategic move that has generated billions of ringgit in returns for Sabah.
“The GRS government remains steadfast and will not back down in its efforts to secure the state’s 40 per cent revenue entitlement. At the same time, the government will continue pressing for Sabah’s Special Grant to be increased while expanding strategic cooperation with Putrajaya,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Kiulu Assemblyman called on village heads and Village Development and Security Committee (JKKK) chairpersons to help explain government policies and initiatives to the grassroots.
At the same event, he announced the establishment of an independent panel to assess the performance and effectiveness of village heads in Kiulu in carrying out their duties and responsibilities.
He said the panel would also receive and review complaints related to the performance and conduct of village heads.
“We will not hesitate to replace those who fail to carry out their duties properly,” he said.
According to him, the panel will comprise individuals with integrity and report directly to the Kiulu Assemblyman’s office as part of efforts to ensure grassroots leaders remain accountable and effective in serving the people.
