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SABAH’S political leaders have urged the Federal Government to respect the High Court’s landmark ruling on the state’s 40% revenue entitlement, warning that an appeal would risk undermining the Federal Constitution and the founding promises of Malaysia.
Warisan president Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal said while Putrajaya had every right to appeal, it should remain mindful of what is already enshrined in the Constitution.
“Of course, under the Constitution they are allowed to appeal. But we hope they will not.
“The judgment by the court is quite clear, it reflects what was agreed in the spirit of Malaysia’s formation,” he said.
PBS acting president Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam said the ruling reaffirmed that the 40% entitlement was not a political concession but a constitutional duty long overdue to Sabah.
“The 40% entitlement is not a privilege, it is a right guaranteed to Sabah under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).
“This decision proves what Sabahans have always believed: that our rights are part of the Constitution, not open to reinterpretation or delay,” he said.
Tuaran MP and UPKO president Datuk Seri Wilfred Madius Tangau said the verdict should mark a new chapter in the implementation of MA63, calling on the Federal Government to honour the court’s direction in good faith.
“The court has spoken. It is now time for the Federal Government to honour its duty, not prolong this issue through appeal.
“Sabah’s rights were never meant to be subject to political bargaining, they are constitutional obligations,” he said.
DAP Sabah chairman Phoong Jin Zhe echoed that sentiment, saying the judgment reaffirmed the rule of law and the principles of federalism.
“The court has reminded us that these are binding obligations, not promises open to negotiation,” he said. “Respecting the decision would restore confidence that Malaysia’s federal system still works for all its partners.”
UPKO secretary-general Senator Datuk Nelson Angang said the focus should now shift to implementing the decision within the timeframe set by the court.
“This is not about politics, it’s about dignity, justice, and Sabah’s rightful position within Malaysia,” he said.
The High Court has ordered both the Federal and State Governments to begin a joint review within 90 days and complete a settlement within 180 days to determine the arrears owed to Sabah since 1974.
Under Malaysian law, the Federal Government has 30 days from the date of judgment, until 16 November, to file a notice of appeal through the Senior Federal Counsel. - October 17, 2025