KUCHING, Nov 10: The tabling of the proposed amendment to the Sarawak Constitution to define what would qualify an individual to be recognised as a ‘resident’ of the state shows that the GPS government is not safeguarding the rights of Sarawakians, opines PBK president Voon Lee Shan.
“PBK (Parti Bumi Kenyalang) opposes the amendment allowing non-Sarawakians (to be defined) as citizens belonging to the state of Sarawak if they are residents in Sarawak for two years for purpose of eligibility to stand in elections and be members of the Sarawak Legislature (DUN).
“It is noted the qualifications as ‘resident in the state’ is very loose. It should be restrictive so that the rights of Sarawakians can be protected,” Voon asserted in a statement.
He opined that the amendment as proposed by Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) will open the floodgates as it would allow people who are from outside Sarawak to further control the state’s political, social and economic fate.
Not only that, the proposed amendment will further allow the erosion of Sarawak’s rights over its immigration autonomy, he alleged.
“The claim that Sarawak has full autonomy over its immigration is disputed because under the Federal Constitution, West Malaysians and Sabahans can come to work in government departments without any screening by the state authorities. Sarawak could become a dumping ground for undisciplined government servants and people who are undesirable to Sarawak.
“This is a good reason for Sarawakians to stand up, stop supporting GPS and replace them in the coming Sarawak election before more damage can be done to Sarawak,” Voon asserted. — DayakDaily
