By Peter Sibon
KUCHING, Jan 26: Deputy Chief Minister Tan Sri Dr James Masing has reminded licensed gun owners in Sarawak to only use their weapons for its intended purposes and not to hunt protected animals.
The Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS) president also advised gun owners to take good care of their guns especially if the firearm was inherited and not to misuse the gun licence.
“Please don’t hunt endangered animals especially those listed as protected wildlife in Sarawak.
“At the same time, take care of the guns and handle them properly. If the shotgun is a heirloom, it must be well looked after and treasured,” he told reporters during a Chinese New Year visit here today.
Masing was part of Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg entourage during the Open House visit to Federation of Chinese Associations Sarawak president Datuk Richard Wee.
The minister expressed his appreciation to the police for their understanding and decision not to revoke shotgun licences from the Sarawak natives.
Masing was commenting on the announcement made by state police commissioner Datuk Ramli Din two days ago that the police would only revoke rifle licences.
Ramli assured that the directive from the Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Abdul Hamid Bador was only regarding to the revocation of rifle licences in stages.
Previously, Masing had raised his concerns over the revoking of shotgun licences. He said the use of shotguns, especially to hunt wild animals for food, have been part of the native culture and lifestyle in Sarawak for generations. — DayakDaily
