Here’s a bold claim: Datuk Ewon Benedick’s resignation over Sabah’s 40% revenue entitlement isn’t the heroic act it’s being painted to be. But here’s where it gets controversial—DAP Secretary-General Anthony Loke isn’t holding back, calling it more of a performance than a genuine stand. Speaking at the 2025 Johor State DAP Annual Convention in Segamat on November 2, 2025, Loke didn’t mince words, accusing the former Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development Minister of ‘playing to the gallery’ rather than showing true courage.
Loke shed light on a critical detail often missed in the drama: the Federal Cabinet held a special meeting on November 11 solely to address the 40% entitlement issue—a clear sign of its importance. After a thorough debate, the Cabinet unanimously decided not to appeal the court’s ruling on Sabah’s rights. However, they agreed to challenge specific parts of the judgment that suggested the Federal Government had ‘misused its powers’ since 1974. And this is the part most people miss—failing to contest this finding could imply the current government is admitting to past misuse of power, which could have serious legal consequences.
Loke didn’t stop there. He called out Ewon for repeatedly claiming the Cabinet ignored Sabah’s views, pointing out that Ewon himself skipped the very meeting called to resolve the issue. ‘If he’s so brave, why didn’t he show up and confront the Attorney General directly? Why didn’t he formally record his objections?’ Loke asked, suggesting Ewon avoided the opportunity to make a real impact. The Attorney General, Loke noted, was present at the meeting to explain the matter, yet Ewon was notably absent despite knowing about it.
Here’s another twist: Ewon’s resignation, announced on November 8, isn’t even official yet. Technically, he’s still a Cabinet member until December, currently on leave. This raises questions about the timing and sincerity of his move. Is this a genuine fight for Sabah’s rights, or a calculated political maneuver?
Loke reassured that DAP and the federal government remain committed to implementing Sabah’s 40% entitlement in stages, following proper legal and governance processes. ‘As Cabinet ministers, our duty is to protect the unity of the Federation,’ he emphasized. Appealing the entitlement, he warned, could be exploited to stir anti-federal sentiment and influence Sabah voters. ‘DAP Sabah has always championed this cause,’ Loke added, highlighting their role as the first political group to take legal action on the matter.
But here’s the question that’ll spark debate: Is Ewon’s resignation a principled stand or a missed opportunity to effect real change from within? And does his absence from the Cabinet meeting undermine his claims of fighting for Sabah? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments—agree or disagree, this is a conversation worth having.
