KUCHING: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak said the move to hold this week's cabinet meeting here is not political despite claims by the Opposition.
Najib said conversely, DAP secretary-general Lim Guan Eng who is also Penang chief minister, was obviously making campaign rounds during in run-up to the Sarawak polls as he has no jurisdiction in the state.
"This is not something unusual (to hold cabinet meeting outside Putrajaya). Cabinet ministers have been having meetings away from Putrajaya from time to time.
"Every minister has responsibilities (based on portfolio) in each state. We want to look into the implementation of projects approved by the government.
"Unlike Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng, for example, who is obviously here to campaign in Sarawak despite having no jurisdiction here," said Najib at a press conference today.
Present were Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and Sarawak Chief Minister Tan Sri Adenan Satem.
Najib also denied claims by the opposition that the Barisan Nasional government would increase the Goods and Services Tax (GST) after the Sarawak election.
"I hope that the people of Sarawak will not be taken for a ride by such lies designed and spread by the Opposition.
On negotiations pertaining to devolution of powers to Sarawak, Najib said the first phase of the discussions on administrative matters has been completed.
"As of now, we are moving into the second phase on autonomy discussions, that will involve legal experts as well," said Najib.
On oil royalty claims for Sarawak, Najib said the matter was not suitable to be looked into as of now due to the loss in oil revenue of RM40 billion.
"However, we will continue to support development fundings for Sarawak. We have already approved many allocations outside the budget for the state.
"For example, during my visits here, I have approved RM3.5 billion in allocations for the state. More will be channeled in the future."