KIULU: Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister, Datuk Joniston Bangkuai, has urged the people of Sabah not to be misled by opposition claims that the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS)-led government is failing to pursue the state’s 40 per cent constitutional revenue entitlement.
Speaking at the Kaamatan celebration and engagement session with Mahkamah Anak Negeri representatives and village heads in Kiulu today, he reaffirmed the state leadership’s full commitment to securing this entitlement as swiftly as possible.
As GRS Information Chief, Joniston highlighted the state government’s strategy of prioritising consultation, engagement, and harmonious relations with the Federal Government, which is already yielding positive outcomes.
This is evident in the Special Grant’s rise from RM53 million under the previous Warisan administration to RM600 million under GRS.
He also noted that, under Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor’s firm leadership, the GRS administration has secured a Commercial Collaboration Agreement (CCA) with Petronas – a strategic move generating billions of ringgit for Sabah.
“The GRS government remains resolute and will not waver in pursuing the 40 per cent entitlement. Meanwhile, we will continue pressing Putrajaya for an enhanced Special Grant and more collaborative agreements,” Joniston declared.
The Kiulu assemblyman called on village heads and Village Development and Security Committee (JKKK) chairpersons to counter opposition narratives at grassroots level by explaining government initiatives and policies to their communities.
He further announced an independent panel to evaluate village heads’ performance and effectiveness in Kiulu.
“The panel will investigate complaints on conduct and performance. We will not hesitate to replace underperformers,” he said.
Comprising individuals of integrity, the panel will report directly to the Kiulu assemblyman’s office, reinforcing efforts to ensure grassroots leaders remain accountable and effective.-pr/BNN
