SABAH Deputy Chief Minister Jeffrey Kitingan has taken a swipe at West Malaysia’s dominance in the East Malaysian states, accusing it of efforts to assert control over all matters in Sabah and Sarawak.
In a sharp budget speech, Kitingan, the Keningau MP, argued that Sabah and Sarawak have long been treated as lesser partners in the federation.
He said a “Malaya-centric” mindset had always overlooked the contributions and needs of the East Malaysian states.
“Sabah’s resources are being swept away (sapu),” he said while referencing Sabah's lack of fair compensation as in the 40% revenue sharing formula.
Kitingan also noted the West Malaysian bid to assert control in East Malaysia politics such as contesting elections in both East Malaysia states as a way to expand its control in parliament and state.
“This dominance by Malaya-based parties weakens the voice and autonomy of Sabah and Sarawak, making it harder for us to assert our own rights within Malaysia,” he said.
Kitingan noted that East Malaysian political leaders are also scolded by their West Malaysian counterparts when they assert their rights.
“Whenever we speak out for what’s due to Sabah, we’re treated as if we’re in the wrong,” he said, describing this as an attempt to silence Sabah and Sarawak’s demands.
“If you want to be a friend, act like one,” he stressed.
Kitingan argued that this mentality needs to end, saying it’s time for the federal government to see Sabah and Sarawak as equals, not subordinates.
He said Sabah and Sarawak still receive a small fraction of total development allocations in the 2025 national budget despite the increases.
“This mentality of treating Sabah and Sarawak as lesser partners has to end,” said Jeffrey, while emphasising the importance of fully implementing the Malaysia Agreement 1963.
Kitingan said the agreement guarantees the rights and autonomy of Sabah and Sarawak.
“What’s the use of forming Malaysia and having MA63 if it’s not respected or implemented?” he asked.
Kitingan demanded Sabah’s constitutionally promised 40% revenue share, arguing that it’s essential for development and is not a federal handout but a right.
He also called for a restoration of 35% of parliamentary seats for Sabah and Sarawak, saying this representation was initially meant to balance power within Malaysia.
“Sabah and Sarawak should be treated as equal partners, not mere colonies,” said Jeffrey, adding that Sabah's patience with federal dominance is now wearing thin. - November 5, 2024
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