By Amanda L
KUCHING, Mar 29: Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah has dismissed Philippine senator Robin Padilla’s call for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr to revive Manila’s territorial claim over Sabah, saying the statement was made by someone seeking attention rather than a figure with real influence.
Padilla cited Sabah’s oil and gas resources as a reason to pursue the territory, bringing renewed attention to a historical dispute between Malaysia and the Philippines.
“Sometimes statements like these come from leaders who are not widely known. They want to make a name for themselves, so they make rhetorical statements,” Abdul Karim told reporters during his ministry’s Hari Raya Aidilfitri open house at a hotel here today.
He added that Padilla, who is also an artist, appears to have made the statement for publicity.
“Sometimes artists like the spotlight, so their statements are also designed to be glamorous. These are rhetorical statements. It should not be a concern. It only comes from someone who does not have much influence, either in the Philippines or in the region,” he said.
Malaysia considers Sabah’s status settled since the State joined the federation in 1963 and views the issue as non-negotiable.
Abdul Karim said such statements often trigger responses from Malaysia, including from Sabah authorities and the Home Ministry, but should not be seen as a credible threat. — DayakDaily
