KOTA KINABALU: Better deals for Sabah and Sarawak are being discussed with the Federal government on special grants, says Datuk Seri Dr Maximus Ongkili (pic).

       The Joint Consultative Committee (JCC) on special grants under Article 112D of the Federal Constitution chaired by Finance Minister Datuk Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz was expected to meet soon to discuss further on the issue, said the Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Sabah and Sarawak Affairs).

       He said this in a statement after the Parliament sitting on Monday (Nov 22), as the matter was touched by lawmakers during the session.

       He said the review of financial and annual grants under Article 112D of the Federal Constitution, as well as refund of the 40% income and revenues derived from Sabah and Sarawak were addressed during the Pakatan Harapan administration.

       However, it said the current state governments rejected the offer as the Pakatan formula did not explain how it came up with the amount.

       "Both (Sabah and Sarawak) states wanted to know how the formula was derived and whether it reflected the right amount of what is payable to both states.

       "Both also wanted a transparent formula, which is in line with what is rightfully payable under the Federal Constitution," added Ongkili.