DAP’s Silence on Sabah’s 40% and SMM Corruption Scandal is a Betrayal

17 November 2025

KOTA KINABALU: Parti Warisan senior adviser Dr Chong Eng Leong today criticised the Democratic Action Party (DAP) for its “deliberate and political silence” on two key issues affecting Sabah — the State’s 40 per cent revenue entitlement and the Sabah Mineral Management Sdn Bhd (SMM) corruption scandal allegedly involving Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) assemblymen.

Dr Chong said DAP’s refusal to comment on either issue amounted to a betrayal of the people of Sabah, particularly when constitutional rights and public integrity were under scrutiny.

On the 40 per cent revenue entitlement, Dr Chong claimed DAP’s silence stemmed from its position within the Federal Government.

“DAP once vocal on MA63 and State rights, did not object when the Attorney-General’s Chambers filed a partial appeal that could affect Sabah’s court victory, nor did it challenge the Ministry of Finance or the Prime Minister.

“The party was prioritising the stability of the Federal Cabinet over Sabah’s constitutional rights,” he stressed.

Regarding the SMM corruption scandal, Dr Chong said DAP’s failure to respond to video footage purportedly showing GRS assemblymen receiving money showed the party was politically compromised.

He claimed DAP feared destabilising the unity government if it criticised its allies, and that political survival had taken precedence over anti-corruption principles.

“DAP no longer represents Sabah’s interests, and its elected representatives remain silent to avoid embarrassing their federal partners.

“Sabah needs leaders who are prepared to defend State rights and confront wrongdoing, not individuals taking instructions from Kuala Lumpur,” he added.

Dr Chong further said Sabah needed leaders prepared to defend State rights and confront wrongdoing, not “not political clerks taking orders from Kuala Lumpur”.

Urging Sabahans to choose leaders who stand up and not bow down, Dr Chong said the State needed parties that defend MA63, uphold the 40 per cent entitlement, confront corruption and safeguard Sabah’s dignity.

“Sabah deserves leaders who speak without fear, defend the 40 per cent entitlement and confront Putrajaya when our dignity is challenged. DAP has shown it will not do any of these,” he said.