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.
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