By Remy Majangkim
Sabah Social Activist
Can the strategy scare off KDM and Chinese voters in PRN17?
KOTA KINABALU: Arthur Sen, the vice president of Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS), questions the former Chief Minister of Sabah, Datuk Shafie Apdal, about writing personal endorsements for individuals seeking temporary residency (MyKas) and permanent residency (MyPR).
He expressed that these endorsements pose considerable issues regarding the integrity and neutrality of the procedures overseeing citizenship and residency in Malaysia.
It is a valid question; however, it requires more depth and understanding, as it borders on slander with a heavy hint of insinuation.
So, PBS has started shooting its first salvo in the run-up to the Sabah State Election.
PBS may have won this round, scoring significant points among their supporters. But without considering the background of the case from beginning to end.
This particular case involves a stateless person who has no nationality and is entitled to no legal protection.
Although the former Chief Minister may express supportive views, it is important to recognise that such comments do not override the necessary procedures.
It is crucial that due diligence is upheld by the relevant department to ensure accountability and effective governance.
This tactic is not new; it occurred during the initial implementation of the Pas Sementara Sabah (PSS). Many people quickly criticise without considering the details.
The PSS was part of the proposal by the Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCI) for the Sabah Project IC, aimed at addressing the long-standing issue of multiple identifications of illegal immigrants in Sabah.
Initially, it was implemented under the Immigration Department, consolidating all documents into one entity, not under the jurisdiction of the National Registration Department.
Therefore, the use of IMM 13 documents would be removed altogether; these documents identify their status but do not expedite their path to citizenship application.
Many people in Sabah have been misled by accusations suggesting that the Warisan-led government is issuing identity cards to immigrants.
It is vital to recognise that there is no truth behind these claims. The continued use of IMM 13 documents will lead to permanent residency status under the Malaysia Immigration Act. The proposed PSS was made to put a stop to it, that simple.
What are the larger issues that require our attention? The indigenous people of Sabah, particularly those living in the remote interior, are trapped in poverty and lack proper road access, which hinders their ability to sell produce and obtain medical treatment.
In many instances, there are families in the interior who still do not have proper birth certificates, identity cards or even marriage certificates.
This poses a multitude of problems to real natives of Sabah. Their struggles to make a living make them vulnerable to manipulation, easily swayed by deceitful rhetoric and false narratives.
We urgently need a political party motivated by clear policies, one that is dedicated to shattering this relentless cycle once and for all.
It is our shared responsibility to construct a stronger state together and to spread vital, accurate information that empowers our communities.
