Beluran MP Datuk Seri Ronald Kiandee has questioned the snail pace of investigation by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) of a high-profile mining scandal in Sabah investigations. 

Speaking in Parliament during the debate on the King’s address, the Bersatu leader from Sabah said the authorities were applying double standards in corruption investigations.

“When it comes to opposition MPs, the speed is supersonic. They are charged first, investigated later,” he said.

Kiandee warned that delays in corruption investigations would erode public confidence in law enforcement.

“This case has been ongoing for two or three months, but it appears to be silent,” he said.

“Compare that to other cases involving opposition leaders, including the Honourable MPs for Pagoh and Tasek Gelugor—the speed of investigation and prosecution was supersonic.

“They were charged first and investigated later. But when it involves figures on the government’s side, the process is much slower, almost as if it is being suppressed.”

“Is this what’s happening. Or there cannot be two sets of laws—one for the opposition and another for the government… The people are watching. The people are waiting.”

Kiandee also cited a MalaysiaKini report alleging negotiations to reinstate a controversial mining project in Sabah.

“Two days ago, MalaysiaKini reported that there were negotiations to return the mining project in Sabah—but with conditions,” he said.

“The report alleged that certain big names had to be removed.

“Let me be clear, I’m not the one making this claim—this was reported by MalaysiaKini. So what is happening with all these cases? Where is the outcome?”

He questioned whether corruption allegations were being selectively used for political purposes.

“Are these reports being used to mobilise a political movement using corruption as a weapon?” he asked.

Sarawak advances, Sabah lags

Kiandee pointed to Sarawak’s growing economic autonomy, saying it had gained significant advantages under the federal government.

“Sarawak has gained significant advantages because of its support for the federal government,” he said.

“If you look at the headlines, on December 24, the gas distribution issue between Petros and Petronas was settled.

“On December 31, Petronas agreed for Petros to be the sole gas aggregator in Sarawak.

“On December 21, the Prime Minister himself said an amicable solution was in the works for Petros and Petronas on gas distribution. Everything favours Sarawak.”

He said Sabah, in contrast, was making headlines for corruption scandals.

“Meanwhile, what are the headlines about Sabah? December 4: A minister voluntarily gave a statement to the MACC. December 9: MACC is investigating the whistleblower in a Sabah corruption scandal…

December 15: The Chief Minister of Sabah says political donations are normal, even claiming it is a ‘lie’ to say political parties do not receive funds.

“December 28: RM400,000 linked to a Deputy Chief Minister. These are the headlines we get.”

Sabah’s contributions, but where’s the money?

Kiandee said Sabah was a major contributor to the national economy, yet lacked basic infrastructure.

“Sabah contributes significantly to the country’s economy,” he said.

“We have 26.5% of Malaysia’s total oil palm plantations, covering 1.5 million hectares. 

“We also produce oil and gas, extracted by Petronas, Shell, TotalEnergies, PTTEP, ConocoPhillips, and Hibiscus Petroleum in offshore Sabah waters. These industries generate substantial tax revenue for the federal government.”

He said the federal government had not fulfilled its constitutional obligation to return Sabah’s share of tax revenue.

“Under Article 112C of the Federal Constitution, 40% of the tax revenue collected from Sabah should be returned to the state. 

“If these funds were returned, issues like water shortages, electricity disruptions, and crumbling roads could be resolved. But where is this money?” – February 6, 2025