Increase in Special Grant Highlights Federal Commitment to Sabah’s Rights

Kuala lumpur: The increase in the interim Special Grant allocation to Sabah from RM600 million to RM1.5 billion underscores the Federal Government's effort to reinforce the state's rights under the Malaysia Agreement 1963.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Gabungan Rakyat Sabah secretary-general Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali stated that the announcement by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on May 31 is a critical step toward enhancing Sabah's financial stability. Despite ongoing legal proceedings regarding Sabah's 40 per cent revenue entitlement, GRS emphasizes the necessity of reviewing the Special Grant under Articles 112C and 112D of the Federal Constitution, including the publication of the revised grant this year.

Armizan highlighted that this stance aligns with the Prime Minister's commitment, as expressed in his speech in the Dewan Rakyat on November 13, 2025, where he reiterated the MADANI Government's recognition of Sabah's 40 per cent Special Grant entitlement as outlined in the Federal Constitution. His remarks were shared on his Facebook page today.

In a related development, Armizan, who also serves as the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister, convened a meeting with several Sabah MPs to evaluate the current status of the implementation of Sabah's 40 per cent entitlement. This remains a pivotal priority and demand for the state.

Armizan affirmed that GRS would maintain a constructive and assertive role in advocating for the interests and rights of Sabah's populace through ongoing dialogue, negotiation, and collaboration with the Federal Government.