Upko Urges Federal Government to Withdraw Appeal on Sabah’s 40% Revenue Entitlement

KOTA KINABALU, Jan 18: Parti Pertubuhan Kinabalu Progresif Bersatu (UPKO) has renewed its call for the federal government to demonstrate sincerity by withdrawing the appeal against a court order requiring a review of Sabah’s 40% revenue entitlement.

Upko president Datuk Ewon Benedick said the continued appeal by the Attorney General’s Chambers (AGC) raised questions about Putrajaya’s commitment to resolving the long-standing issue.

“If the federal government is sincere in returning what is rightfully owed to Sabah and truly wants to resolve this matter, the appeal should be dropped,” he said when officiating UPKO’s triannual convention here on Sunday.

The Deputy Chief Minister III said that while negotiations over payments for previous years might take time, there was no reason why revenue payments for the coming years could not be finalized and implemented immediately.

“This should be the first reform agenda, as it will be a key factor in driving development and progress for Sabah,” he added.

Ewon said the issue would be raised again during Monday’s parliamentary sitting, stressing that resolving Sabah’s financial rights would help address long-standing development gaps faced by the state.

“There is still much to be done for the betterment of Sabah. These rights and due payments can help restore what Sabah has been denied for so long,” he said.

While acknowledging that changes had taken place since the formation of Malaysia in 1963, Ewon said greater efforts were needed to ensure tangible benefits for the people of Sabah.

He reaffirmed UPKO’s commitment to defending state rights and pushing for reform, describing these efforts as the party’s core mission.

Earlier, Ewon said that as a Sabah-based party representing the interests of genuine Sabahans, UPKO would continue working to advance the welfare and development of the state.

He also called on party leaders, members, and supporters to act as ambassadors for UPKO by actively contributing to development initiatives that directly benefit the people.