KOTA KINABALU: The people of Sabah should reject the proposal to establish an Indian consulate in Sabah, stated Gundohing Jaesman Gipin, the co-chairman of the Tamparuli Welfare Association (PETI).
He pointed out that there are several reasons that must be considered before this proposal is realised.
He mentioned that there is currently no significant need justifying the establishment of an Indian consulate in the state.
“The number of Indian nationals in Sabah is relatively small, and most have already become Malaysian citizens… thus, there is no urgent necessity at this time,” he said in a recent social media post.
Conversely, Jaesman emphasised that priority should be given to the establishment of a Filipino consulate in Sabah.
“This is because Sabah has a large population of Filipinos who require a consulate to address issues such as illegal immigrants (PATI) and other matters,” he explained.
He noted that the majority of Sabah’s residents are also concerned about security and economic issues.
“Some people in Sabah fear that an Indian consulate could lead to an uncontrolled influx of foreign nationals, which would subsequently impact local security and the economy,” he remarked.
Jaesman stated that the decision to establish an Indian consulate in Sabah is viewed as lacking transparency and not involving the participation of the people of Sabah.
“The people of Sabah do not want a flood of Indian nationals like what has occurred in Peninsular Malaysia. If there are matters to be addressed in India, Sabahans can deal with the existing Indian consulate in Peninsular Malaysia.
“As a former immigration officer, I am aware that if 10 Indians enter Sabah, only a few may return to India; the rest will likely settle in Sabah by any means necessary for specific purposes,” he added.
Therefore, Jaesman, who is also an advisor to the Pribumi Sabah Welfare Association in the Tamparuli branch, strongly opposes the establishment of an Indian consulate in Sabah.
