by David E.
KOTA KINABALU: 29 September 2026 – The Court of Appeal will hear the appeal over Sabah’s constitutional right to the 40% special grant on 29 October 2026.
Nominated Assemblyman Roger Chin said the case was not merely an ordinary court case as it involved a constitutional promise to Sabah, the state’s position in the Federation and the interests of Sabahans today and future generations.
He said at previous hearings only a small number of people could enter the courtroom and witness the proceedings, while many concerned Sabahans had to remain outside.
“This time, the situation will be different. The court has agreed to make its conference hall a public viewing area. The hall can accommodate up to 250 people who will follow the hearing live through a closed-circuit audio-visual transmission from the courtroom,” he said in a statement.
He said it was an important opportunity for more Sabahans to witness the proceedings, understand the arguments and see the constitutional institutions at work.
Roger Chin urged Sabahans from every community, district and walk of life to attend with family and friends to show support for the Sabah Law Society’s efforts to uphold Sabah’s constitutional rights.
“The courtroom may have limited capacity, but the importance of this case goes far beyond its walls. Let us fill the 250 seats in the conference hall,” he said.
He added that the presence of Sabahans would prove that they understood the importance of the case and cared about the future of the state’s constitution.
The hearing is scheduled for Thursday, 29 October 2026, 9am at the Conference Hall, Kota Kinabalu Courts Complex. Attendance is subject to the hall’s capacity and all security requirements and court directions.
“History should not be watched from afar. Come and show your support. Come and witness these proceedings. Come and be part of this historic day,” he said.
He also urged the public to spread the announcement so that every Sabahan knows this hearing is not limited to the few who can find a place in the courtroom.
“On 29 October 2026, let Sabah be present,” he said.
