Jeffrey says Sabah should formally reject the Territorial Sea Act 2012 and assert its rights over the continental shelf. – Bernama photo
KOTA KINABALU (April 28): The Sabah government has been urged to take firmer legal and policy action on territorial rights, petroleum resources and the rising cost of living, amid calls for a stronger stance on federal-state resource issues in the State Legislative Assembly.
Tambunan assemblyman Jeffrey Kitingan said the state should formally reject the Territorial Sea Act 2012 and assert its rights over the continental shelf.
“The state cannot merely say it disagrees without taking formal action. Otherwise, it appears as if we are accepting these laws silently,” he said.
He stressed that issues involving petroleum, oil and gas, and the continental shelf are non-negotiable and represent Sabah’s constitutional rights.
Jeffrey also questioned whether the state government had engaged international legal experts to support ongoing legal challenges related to Sabah’s territorial and resource claims.
He further asked whether Sabah would support Sarawak’s petition to the Federal Court challenging federal petroleum-related laws, noting that a favourable outcome could have implications for Sabah’s position.
“If the decision favours Sarawak, it will also affect Sabah’s position and could restore our ownership of oil and gas resources,” he said.
State Opposition Leader Mohd Shafie Apdal, who interjected during the debate, backed calls for a stronger and more unified stance on continental shelf and resource issues.
“We need unity and firmness. If we are not firm, nothing can be done,” he said, citing Sarawak’s approach in defending its rights.
On global developments, Jeffrey noted that rising oil prices due to geopolitical tensions could generate an additional RM1.8 billion to RM2 billion in revenue for Sabah in 2026.
He suggested that such windfalls be channelled into a sovereign wealth fund.
He also raised concerns over the rising cost of living and food security in the state.
“What is the state government’s plan to address rising prices of essential goods and ensure that food supply chains remain stable?” he asked.
