THE prime minister’s assertion regarding the RM16 billion Sabah overall allocation yesterday should not be conflated with or substituted for the 40% special grant, said lawyer Datuk Roger Chin.
The former Sabah Law Society president, in reacting to Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s speech yesterday, said that there is a critical distinction between regular federal funding, which is a federal obligation, and the special grant.
“The RM16 billion allocation addresses areas that are inherently federal responsibilities. These include education, security and infrastructure which are essential services every state expects and receives as part of the federation.
“The special grant is designed to address the unique needs and contributions of Sabah, providing additional financial support beyond standard of the federal allocations.
“This ensures Sabah can develop on par with the other states and address specific challenges,” he said in a statement in Kota Kinabalu today.
He said that the 40% constitutional revenue entitlement is separate from regular federal allocations and must be maintained to ensure Sabah receives its rightful support.
He also said that based on Anwar’s disclosure of RM10.2 billion in revenue collected by Putrajaya from Sabah, the state should receive approximately RM4.08 billion in special grants.
“The special grant is not merely a financial transaction but a recognition of Sabah’s contributions to national wealth.
“It is crucial to ensure these funds are effectively utilised to promote sustainable development, improve infrastructure, and enhance the quality of life for Sabah’s residents,” he added.
He stressed the need for ongoing dialogue between federal and state governments to ensure fair resource distribution and uphold Sabah’s constitutional rights.
“Proper allocation of the special grant will promote equitable growth and strengthen the unity of the Malaysian federation. Clear communication and cooperation between federal and state entities are essential for Sabah’s development,” he said.
Anwar, during his speech at the Agenda Himpunan Perdana Rakyat at the Sabah International Convention Centre yesterday, spoke about the overall allocation to Sabah and the revenue collected by Putrajaya from Sabah.
He trotted out figures when lambasting government-aligned Sabah lawmakers for questioning the RM16 billion overall allocation to Sabah this year. – August 5, 2024
