Yap Urges Sarawak to Pursue Full Constitutional Entitlement under Article 112D

suppadmin | October 18, 2025

Kota Sentosa State Assemblyman, Wilfred Yap, has called on the Sarawak Government to take proactive action to secure the state’s full entitlement under Article 112D of the Federal Constitution, following the recent Sabah High Court judgment reaffirming the Federal Government’s constitutional obligation to review and pay special grants to Sabah.

“The court’s decision confirms what Sarawakians have long believed — that our rights under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) and the Federal Constitution are not matters of goodwill but legal and enforceable obligations,” said Yap.

He stressed that the judgment in favour of Sabah should serve as a clear signal for Sarawak to insist on a full and lawful review of its special grant entitlement, which has not been properly adjusted for decades despite the constitutional requirement for reviews every five years.

“Sarawak’s rights under Article 112D mirror those of Sabah. If Sabah is entitled to a review and arrears for the past years, Sarawak must be accorded the same treatment,” he added.

While welcoming the interim RM600 million grant currently received by Sarawak, Yap said it cannot replace a proper constitutional review that reflects the state’s fair share of federal revenue derived from its resources.

He pointed out that the Sabah High Court judgment sets an important legal precedent and strengthens Sarawak’s position in the ongoing MA63 implementation discussions.

“The Sarawak Government should formally initiate a review process under Article 112D and, if necessary, pursue legal recourse to ensure compliance from the Federal side. This is not about confrontation — it is about upholding the rule of law and ensuring the Federal–State relationship functions within the framework agreed upon at the formation of Malaysia,” he said.

Yap further emphasised that Sarawak’s fiscal rights are enshrined in the Federal Constitution, and it is the duty of the Sarawak Government and Members of Parliament from the state serving in the Federal Cabinet to ensure these rights are fully respected.

He added that pursuing Sarawak’s dues is vital to enable further investment in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and community development, especially in rural and semi-urban areas.

“I am confident that under the leadership of Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Abang Haji Openg, the Sarawak Government will continue to defend and advance Sarawak’s rightful interests under MA63 and the Federal Constitution,” said Yap.

He concluded that the Sabah judgment has reopened the constitutional pathway for both Sabah and Sarawak to restore what was promised in 1963, adding, “This is the moment for Sarawak to act decisively and reclaim what is rightfully ours.”