SABAH’S ruling coalition, Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS), responded sharply to comments made by deputy information chief of Parti Warisan, Justin Wong, which accused the state government of “hijacking credit” following a High Court ruling affirming Sabah’s right to 40 per cent of net federal revenue.
GRS Youth Secretary Rafie Datuk Robert dismissed the assertion as “baseless” and suggested that Warisan is continuing to exploit Sabah’s rights under the Constitution and the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) purely as a political tool, rather than engaging in substantive advocacy.
“Warisan should realise that the struggle to claim Sabah’s rights cannot be done populistically or emotionally,” he said.
Rafie said that the GRS‑led state government under caretaker Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor has taken a “mature and responsible” approach in defending the state’s financial entitlements, including the 40 per cent net revenue share, through constitutionally anchored channels.
He added that GRS does not dismiss the role of the Sabah Law Society (SLS) and shares the goal of defending Sabah’s rights, even if the methods differ.
He emphasised that the difference in approach should not be seen as conflict but as complementary efforts towards a common aim: “The struggle of GRS is not about seeking personal or political credit—the key is execution and benefit for the people.”
Rafie also took aim at Warisan’s record, pointing out that despite governing Sabah for over two years, the party did not make meaningful headway on the 40 per cent revenue claim or the implementation of MA63.
“More than two years in power, yet Warisan failed to show concrete results. Now when another government makes progress, they ride the issue and deny others’ efforts,” he charged.
He reiterated that GRS is currently engaging with the federal government to ensure the High Court decision is implemented, including revisiting the revenue‑sharing formula and reclaiming outstanding payments due to Sabah.
“The people want results, not infighting. GRS remains committed to advancing Sabah’s rights based on facts and the law.” - October 21, 2025
