KOTA KINABALU: Parti Solidariti Tanahairku (STAR) Kapayan Division Chief Bernard Logijin says Thursday’s landmark High Court decision declaring Sabah’s constitutional right to 40 per cent of federal revenue derived from the state has significantly boosted public support for the party, particularly in the lead-up to the next election.
“For so long, people had been skeptical that we could ever win this battle. Some even tried to stop us from claiming this right. Now people believe,” Bernard said in a statement, following the court’s historic ruling on Thursday.
The Kota Kinabalu High Court ruled that the federal government acted unlawfully by not fulfilling Sabah’s right to 40 per cent of federal revenue for nearly 50 years.
Delivering her judgment in open court, Judge Celestina Stuel Galid declared that the special grant arrangements between the federal and state governments were “unlawful, ultra vires, and irrational,” as they violated the Federal Constitution.
The court then issued a mandamus order, which compels Putrajaya to review the revenue allocation with the Sabah government. The court also ordered that an agreement be reached on Sabah’s 40 per cent share of federal revenue for each financial year from 1974 to 2021, with this process to be completed within 180 days.
Bernard added that the people of Kapayan, in particular, have long been aware of STAR’s unwavering commitment to Sabah’s rights, crediting the party’s vocal and consistent stance on state autonomy for the surge in local support.
“Many people know that STAR President Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan was the one who taught Sabahans about our rights. It’s a commitment that cost him his freedom—he was imprisoned without trial under the ISA. But today, people are finally recognising his sacrifices and political struggle,” said Bernard.
Bernard said this moment presents a crucial turning point for Sabah, and it underscores the need for experienced leadership in the negotiations with Putrajaya.
“This means Sabah needs a strong leader who understands the issue in depth when facing the Federal Government. A leader who is fearless and won’t bow to pressure.
“But looking at the support from the people in Kapayan, I believe they know the leader they must vote for — and they’ve already made up their mind.”
He expressed confidence that Dr Jeffrey can do more for Sabah, and stressed the importance of forming a Sabah-led government to safeguard the state’s rights and future.
At a recent event, Bernard announced that the Kapayan Division is ready for the coming election. “Our election machinery is all set for battle,” he said during the launch of the division’s election operation, which was attended by STAR Deputy President Datuk Kenny Chua and Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP) President Datuk Seri Yong Teck Lee.
The Kapayan seat is expected to be among the key battlegrounds in the upcoming state election, with STAR positioning itself as a frontline defender of Sabah’s constitutional rights and autonomy.
