Anwar agrees Sarawak deserves fair share, promises formula clarity, interim measure by Malaysia Day

KOTA KINABALU, Sept 11 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is committed to formulating a method to allocate a portion of the state's revenue to Sarawak, according to reports. Anwar expressed readiness to collaborate with Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg on an interim solution prior to Malaysia Day on September 16.

Sarawak had presented its perspective on a formula that would provide more transparency, taking into consideration the federal government's financial capability. Anwar affirmed his agreement with this approach and instructed the federal and Sarawak finance ministries to deliberate on implementing such a formula. He expressed optimism about disclosing the interim measure soon after Malaysia Day.

Notably, the federal government has been discussing with Sabah on addressing its constitutional responsibility to pay 40% of its state-derived revenue, which it has been failing to do since 1974. In May, Anwar announced an interim special grant of RM1.5 billion for Sabah as talks between Putrajaya and the Sabah government continue.

Anwar emphasized that the same principle of revenue return should apply to Sarawak, despite its financial arrangement lacking a similar constitutional provision. Abang Johari welcomed the proposed formula as a mutually beneficial solution between Sarawak and the federal government, stressing that the country's overall financial stability should be considered.