Kota Kinabalu: Parti Bumi Kenyalang (PBK) Sabah described the recent High Court ruling affirming Sabah’s entitlement to 40pc of federal revenue collected from the state as a major victory, but cautioned that the “war is far from over.”PBK Sabah Chairperson Datin Soh Kee Suat said the Federal Government is expected to appeal the decision and could seek to negotiate a reduced payout or compensation amount to Sabah.
“It is likely that Putrajaya will move to limit the state’s benefit from this ruling, either through appeal or by amending the Federal Constitution to repeal the relevant clauses guaranteeing Sabah’s 40 pc revenue return,” she said in a statement.
Soh warned that despite the clear legal affirmation, the Federal Government’s compliance remains uncertain.
“From a political perspective, it is doubtful that Putrajaya will fully comply with the court order.
“They may wait for Sabah to pursue a writ of seizure and sale of federal assets, though the sums involved are substantial and difficult to quantify,” she said.
She added that it is unlikely the courts would permit such a writ, as doing so could “paralyse government functions.”“The High Court’s decision marks a crucial milestone for Sabah’s constitutional rights, but Sabahans must remain vigilant. This battle for financial justice is not over,” she said.