Sabah assemblymen say the close relationship between PM Anwar and CM Hajiji is key to fast-tracking the state’s 40% special grant claim from Putrajaya.
KOTA KINABALU: Sabah state assemblymen are confident the issue of the state’s 40% special grant from the federal government will be resolved more swiftly due to the close relationship between Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
Datuk Seri Ghulamhaidar @ Yusof Khan Bahadar (GRS-Kawang) said confidence has been strengthened by a High Court ruling affirming Sabah’s constitutional right to the grant.
“I also want to express confidence in the exceptional leadership of the Yang Amat Berhormat Sulaman (Hajiji) and his strong ties with Putrajaya, especially with the Prime Minister,” he said during the 2026 Sabah Supply Bill debate.
He stated this gives hope the revenue share issue can be resolved more smoothly.
Ghulamhaidar added the strong state-federal ties have created a ‘bridge’ streamlining administrative coordination.
This helps speed up efforts to establish a distribution mechanism for the state’s entitlement.
Datuk Pengiran Saifuddin Pengiran Tahir Petra (GRS-Pantai Manis) also voiced confidence, emphasising restoring state rights is crucial for Sabah’s economic competitiveness.
“Once fully realised, this entitlement will greatly strengthen the state’s fiscal position,” he said.
He stressed it will allow for increased funding for community development, infrastructure and public services.
Justin Wong Yung Bin (Warisan-Sri Tanjong) said the fight should no longer be seen as a political contest.
He emphasised the importance of a bipartisan approach to speed up the issue’s resolution.
Wong noted both government and opposition lawmakers agree the agenda must be pursued collectively.
He said voting patterns indicate restoring MA63 rights is a collective demand of Sabah’s people.
The state assembly sitting resumes tomorrow. – Bernama
