SANDAKAN: Six assemblymen from Sandakan have criticised Sandakan Member of Parliament Vivian Wong Shir Yee, accusing her of merely “putting on an act” and attempting to gain public sympathy by portraying herself as a defender of Sabah’s interests while allegedly failing to effectively champion the State’s rights.
The six assemblymen are Elopura Assemblyman Calvin Chong, Sungai Sibuga Assemblywoman Datuk Lisa Alban, Sekong Assemblyman Alias Sani, Gum-Gum Assemblyman Arunarsin Taib, Tanjong Papat Assemblyman Datuk Alex Thien, and Karamunting Assemblyman George Hiew Vun Zin.
In a joint statement, they alleged that Members of Parliament from Vivian’s party had failed to play an effective role in defending Sabah’s interests at the Federal level, including on the long-standing issue of Sabah’s 40 per cent net revenue entitlement.
According to them, despite holding a considerable number of seats in Parliament, the party’s MPs have not fully utilised their positions to firmly safeguard Sabah’s rights.
They also raised concerns over Sabah’s petroleum revenue, claiming that much of it continues to be channelled to the Federal Government, while warning that changes involving fuel subsidies such as RON95 could negatively affect Sabah’s economy and its people.
The assemblymen further claimed that important issues involving Sabah’s rights, particularly the 40 per cent revenue entitlement, are frequently used as political talking points without clear progress toward implementation.
At the same time, they alleged that Vivian, despite serving two terms as a government MP, has yet to demonstrate significant achievements in Sandakan’s development, particularly in areas involving economic growth, employment opportunities, and basic infrastructure such as roads, water supply, and electricity.
According to them, the people are more concerned with solutions to bread-and-butter issues rather than repeated political rhetoric without tangible outcomes.
The six assemblymen stressed that they remain committed to fighting for Sabah’s rights, especially the state’s demand for 40 per cent of net revenue from the Federal Government.
They also accused the opposing side of failing to fulfil promises made to Sabahans and of using Sabah-related issues merely as political narratives without genuine commitment or action.
The assemblymen urged Sabahans to remain vigilant and not be easily influenced by political propaganda, while continuing to support efforts to restore the rights and interests of the State.
