The increase in Sabah’s interim payment from RM600 million to RM1.5 billion is a positive development and reflects growing federal attention to the state’s 40 pc revenue entitlement, Gagasan Rakyat Tambunan chief Datuk Victor P. Paut.
He stressed that while the move is encouraging, the Sabah government will continue pursuing the full implementation of its rights under MA63.
“This proves the Sabah GRS government’s approach of maintaining negotiations and good relations with the federal government is delivering results.
"The state will continue to fight for its rights, including the 40 pc claim, even though it is not a simple process,” he said.
Victor added that Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor’s preference for negotiation over confrontation reflects a mature strategy aimed at securing tangible outcomes for Sabah, noting that the struggle is ongoing as the people still await a final resolution.