Kota kinabalu: The first meeting concerning Sabah's claim to 40 percent of federal net revenue generated in the state is currently progressing at the senior official level, as stated by Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor. The technical discussions are being held between state and federal officials to establish a viable mechanism for implementing the revenue entitlement.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Hajiji mentioned that he has not yet received a comprehensive briefing, but the State Secretary has informed him of a meeting with the Federal Government regarding the resolution mechanism for the 40 percent revenue issue. These talks are presently at the official level, with the State Secretary representing Sabah and the Treasury Secretary-General leading the federal side. The Chief Minister emphasized that there is still time to finalize the discussions, and both governments will decide on further actions once the meeting concludes.

When asked about Sabah's specific proposals in the negotiations, Hajiji indicated that the details remain undisclosed due to the technical nature of the discussions. He noted that several rounds of talks might be necessary before reaching an agreement, but expressed confidence in completing the negotiations within the designated timeframe.

On October 17, the Kota Kinabalu High Court ruled that the Federal Government had acted unlawfully and exceeded its constitutional authority by not honoring Sabah's entitlement to 40 percent of federal net revenue for nearly 40 years. The court ordered a review within 90 days and instructed both governments to reach a mutual agreement within 180 days from the date of the order concerning Sabah's special grant entitlement for the period from 1974 to 2021.