Nominated rep proposes constitutional amendment for Sabah to collect revenue at source to end disputes
by Mariah Doksil · Borneo Post OnlineKOTA KINABALU (Dec 17): Nominated assemblyman Datuk Roger Chin has proposed that the Sabah State Legislative Assembly (DUN) table a motion to amend the Federal Constitution, allowing Sabah to collect all revenues at source, with the federal government receiving its 60 per cent share thereafter.
Speaking during his winding-up debate, Chin said the proposal offers a practical, long-term solution to decades of disputes over revenue figures, data, and calculations between Sabah and the federal government.
He said allowing Sabah to collect revenue at source would ensure greater clarity, transparency and accountability, not only for the state but also for the Federation as a whole.
“This is the most practical way to end the long-standing disagreements over numbers. When Sabah collects at source, there will be no ambiguity over figures and accountability will be clear on both sides,” he said.
Chin added that if the motion were to receive unanimous support in the Assembly, it would send a strong, unequivocal message to the federal government that Sabah is united and serious about resolving the issue permanently.
He said the motion would also provide Sabah’s MPs with a clear and authoritative mandate from the DUN to pursue the necessary constitutional amendments at the federal level.
“This is not political posturing. It is a lawful and institutional step, taken through the proper democratic process,” he stressed.
Chin concluded that he would ensure the motion is tabled and debated in the Assembly, noting that Sabah deserves a revenue system based on verifiable facts rather than ongoing negotiations over figures.