Anwar urges stronger Federal-Sabah ties built on trust
Anwar, who also serves as Finance Minister, urged Sabah to follow Sarawak's example, where closer federal-state collaboration has yielded tangible benefits.
He reiterated Putrajaya's commitment to working with Sabah's leadership on governance and development, ensuring that the state's interests and wellbeing remain a priority.
"The federal government has long prioritised Sabah's needs. This isn't about state elections, it's about responsibility," he said after meeting Sabah Pakatan Harapan (PH) leaders on Thursday night.
Anwar reaffirmed that the federal government's concern for Sabah goes beyond electoral considerations.
Also present at the meeting were Sabah PH chairman Datuk Ewon Benedick, who is also UPKO president, PKR Sabah state leadership council chairman Datuk Mustapha Sakmu, and Sabah DAP chairman Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe.
Anwar highlighted his administration's commitment to upholding the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) through a dedicated committee chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, alongside ministers from Sabah and Sarawak.
He said that nine longstanding issues related to MA63 had been successfully resolved, while even complex matters such as oil affairs had been addressed.
"We propose the same principle so that assured revenue for Sabah can be achieved. Governance must be prioritised, not personal wealth," Anwar stressed.
Anwar underscored the federal government's success in repelling the Sulu group's claim, affirming its commitment to protecting Sabah's sovereignty.
"We gave our full commitment in the Cabinet meeting, and even at the recent Asean summit, ensuring Sabah's issues remain a priority," he said.
Regarding the Sabah State Election (PRN), Anwar—who is also PH chairman—said Sabah PH is engaged in discussions with Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) and Sabah Barisan Nasional (BN).
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