SAPP bid to discuss Sabah claim rejected

Kota Kinabalu, Apr 21, 2009: Speaker Datuk Juhar Mahiruddin Monday rejected a proposal by Likas Assemblyman Datuk Liew Teck to discuss the Philippines claim on Sabah.

Liew, who invoked Standing Order 23 (1), said the discussion was important so that the status of Sabah could be resolved fast.

"It is hoped that the voice of the people of Sabah through this Dewan would be brought to the Federal Government and to take immediate action on the Philippines' claim on Sabah," he said in a letter to Juhar.

Juhar, however, said that in the first place the House does not recognise the claim. "If the matter is discussed during the Assembly, it would be like acknowledging the Phillipines claim on Sabah, although it is already recognised by the United Nations as part of Malaysia."

Liew said he proposed the issue be discussed following the arrest of a man who claimed to be descendant of the so-called Sultan of Sulu and 11 others by police in Lahad Datu recently for burning the flag of Sabah in two separate illegal assemblies.

He said their act has caused anger among Malaysians in Sabah.

"Moreover, the yet-to-be resolved illegal immigrant problem which has caused social and security problems in Sabah is also part of the factor," he said.

He said this matter, which had disturbed the people's mind and lives for so long, should be noted by the State and Federal governments.