Withdrawal of Lawsuit Accelerated Return of Sabah’s Rights, Says MANTAP Chairman

21 October 2025

KOTA KINABALU: The decision by Datuk Ewon Benedick to withdraw the 2023 lawsuit seeking Sabah’s 40 per cent revenue entitlement from the Federal Government was a strategic and commendable move that helped fast-track negotiations on the state’s rights under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), said Moyog Agroindustry and Tourism Park (MANTAP) Chairman, Datuk Stephen Sampil.

Responding to past criticism that Ewon’s withdrawal showed a lack of commitment, Stephen said the action had in fact accelerated the process of restoring Sabah’s rights and enabled the state to benefit more quickly from revenue collected by the Federal Government.

“Following the withdrawal, serious discussions were held through the Technical Committee and the MA63 Implementation Committee, where Ewon played a significant role in shaping the mechanisms, procedures, and criteria for implementing the 40 per cent revenue formula,” he said.

He added that these efforts led to the Sabah Government receiving additional allocations, RM300 million in 2025, increasing to RM600 million in 2026 as an interim payment under the Madani Budget 2026.

“This additional allocation has directly helped the government enhance the economic well-being and living standards of the people through various development programmes,” Stephen said.

He described the High Court’s recent ruling affirming Sabah’s 40 per cent entitlement as a major victory that further strengthens the state’s position to receive its due share in the near future.

“This outcome is indirectly linked to the filing and subsequent withdrawal of the lawsuit, which also raised widespread awareness among Sabahans about the 40 per cent issue,” he explained.

Stephen praised Ewon as a courageous and visionary Sabahan leader who dared to take the first step by filing the case, and later made a mature decision to withdraw it in the state’s best interest.

“No one else had the courage to do what Ewon did. His decision to withdraw the lawsuit was wise and pragmatic, as proven by the Federal Government’s subsequent allocations of RM300 million and RM600 million. Had he not done so, the resolution of the 40 per cent issue might have been further delayed,” he said.

Stephen stressed that the move should be recognised as part of Ewon’s unwavering commitment to defend Sabah’s rights under MA63.

“Ewon’s decision was both strategic and sincere. It reflects his dedication as a true son of Sabah who continues to fight for the state’s future. He deserves full credit and appreciation from all Sabahans,” he concluded.