RANAU: Sabahans could once again benefit from annual dividends drawn from state revenue if the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) government is returned to power, said Datuk Seri Panglima Masidi Manjun.
Masidi, the incumbent representative for the Karanaan seat, explained that the dividends previously enjoyed by Sabahans were made possible through the State’s share of the 40 percent revenue owed by the Federal Government.
“It is channelled into state investments, when the money is invested and it generates profit, that profit is ours. We share it with all Sabahans every year,” he said, adding that the initiative would be reinstated and expanded under a renewed GRS mandate.
He made the pledge during an event at Dewan Kg Tambiau, placing the promise of restoring the people’s dividend at the core of his address.
The former minister emphasised that these funds rightfully belong to the people, describing them as a collective return from federal revenue accrued in Sabah.
“This forms part of our long-term plans. Should GRS be entrusted with the mandate again, we will restore the annual dividend and extend its coverage,” he said.
Masidi also highlighted the free accident insurance scheme introduced for Sabahans, noting that it must continue. The programme provides RM10,000 compensation for death or serious injury, RM1,000 for funeral expenses, covers infants as young as 30 days old, and ensures claims are processed within ten days through district council offices, provided police and hospital reports confirm the cause.
“This is the kind of assistance that directly helps our people,” he said, adding that the programme would be maintained and improved if GRS continues governing.
Throughout his speech, Masidi repeatedly urged voters to evaluate leaders based on their ability to govern rather than make easy promises.
“Accusing others is easy. But doing the real work is something else entirely,” he said, pointing to former leaders with ministerial portfolios who “achieved little” despite holding key positions.
He reminded the audience of GRS’s track record over the past three to four years. “We have proven our ability to administer the state. Don’t judge us only by promises, judge us by what we’ve already done well.”
Masidi cautioned voters against switching governments without solid reasons, stressing the importance of long-term stability.
“Do not choose just for the next five years. Choose for the future of your children. Sabah needs leaders and a government capable of safeguarding the years ahead,” he said.
Masidi also dismissed fears of political imbalance, noting that GRS cooperates with Kuala Lumpur without merging, and maintains sufficient representation to form a government on its own if required.
“Cooperation is not the same as joining. And our number of assemblymen is more than half of what others can contest,” he said.
He addressed local development concerns as well, explaining that certain infrastructure projects such as drainage, road repairs and bridges, were delayed due to issues with funding warrants issued only in September.
He recommended postponing implementation to early next year to avoid payment complications.
“It is better we delay until early next year so there will be no issues in terms of payment,” he said.
Masidi closed his speech with a reminder of the approaching polling date. “On the 29th, we will vote, I will choose the future. Not only for myself, but for my children—for all our children.”
