Follow Constitution Putrajaya Says As States Seek More Rights

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Putrajaya is appealing to the supremacy of the Federal Constitution amid a push by some states for more rights and benefits.
While not addressing any of the demands directly, the cabinet said today that the relationship between the federal and state governments is guided by the Federal Constitution.
“The cabinet takes note of statements made by several quarters regarding matters related to the relationship between the federal and state governments,” said Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil at a press conference today.
“Malaysia is built on the agreement between all states and is based on the principles of federalism - which is the main core of the Federal Constitution and the progress of the nation is based on the joint strength of the federal (government) and all states.
“As such, the Federal Constitution is the foundation in ensuring state rights and in determining the relationship between the federal and state governments,” he added.
Communications Minister Fahmi FadzilAs for Sabah and Sarawak, Fahmi said discussions are being guided by the Federal Constitution and the Malaysia Agreement 1963.
Asked about a reported request by Johor Menteri Besar Onn Hafiz Ghazi for Putrajaya to allocate 30 percent of tax revenues back to the state, Fahmi said, “Refer to my earlier statement”.
On June 9, Johor Regent Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim said some 20 to 30 percent of the state’s tax revenue, amounting to RM48-49 billion annually, should be returned to Johor.
Johor Regent Tunku Ismail Sultan IbrahimYesterday, the New Straits Times quoted Onn as saying that an official request has been submitted to Putrajaya following the regent’s directive.
Meanwhile, Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow on Monday said the state government plans to send an official letter of request regarding a similar proposal to return 20 percent of taxes collected from the state. - Mkini

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