KOTA KINABALU, March 27 — Sabah is justified in receiving diesel subsidies given its longstanding role as one of Malaysia’s main oil and gas producers, said Ewon Benedick.
The Sabah Deputy Chief Minister III, who also serves as the state’s Minister of Industrial Development, Entrepreneurship and Transport, emphasized that the state’s natural resources have historically contributed to the development of other regions in Malaysia.
“Sabah is a producing state. Revenues from oil and gas have supported development in other parts of the country that do not have these resources,” he said, adding that the state deserves fair returns not only in development but also in ensuring domestic needs are met.
Ewon noted that he had been involved in discussions on diesel subsidy decisions during his time in the federal Cabinet, and continues to support the policy. He stressed that Sabah’s contribution to national energy output strengthens its case for continued subsidy support.
He further called on the federal government to prioritize domestic needs, particularly in resource-producing states. According to him, it is timely for Putrajaya to reassess how national resources are allocated to ensure producing regions benefit more directly.
Addressing the recent reduction in diesel subsidy quotas—from 300 liters to 200 liters—Ewon said clearer explanations are needed, even as he acknowledged that geopolitical tensions in the Middle East have driven up global oil prices.
“While global conflicts do affect oil prices, Malaysia should also consider how its own resources are used to meet domestic demands,” he said.
Ewon also highlighted growing public concern over potential disruptions to essential goods, especially food supplies, which heavily depend on maritime transport.
“Not only industry players, but ordinary citizens are worried about daily food supply as shipping routes have been affected,” he said.
Despite ongoing discussions about regional rights and resource distribution involving Sabah, Sarawak, and Peninsular Malaysia, Ewon stressed that these issues have not undermined national unity.
He also defended Sabah’s position against critics of the diesel subsidy, pointing out that the state has contributed significantly since the implementation of the Petroleum Development Act, which he said resulted in Sabah losing control over key natural resources.
“Sabah has long subsidized development elsewhere. It is only fair that what rightfully belongs to Sabah is returned to its people,” he said.
Separately, Ewon, who is also president of the United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (UPKO), said the party’s Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebration in Putatan reflects its commitment to fostering unity and mutual respect among Sabah’s diverse communities.
He described such open house events as an important platform for strengthening social cohesion and cooperation across different backgrounds.
