The state government continues to strengthen the Native Court
By John T
KOTA KINABALU: The State Government is working to strengthen the Native Court with clear and sufficient jurisdiction, a solid institutional structure, and officers with integrity and credibility.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Haji Noor said this includes modern, orderly and effective procedures.
Therefore, he said, this year, the state government, through the Sabah Native Affairs Department, has allocated RM84.40 million for expenditure to manage and implement various programmes to ensure the welfare and customs of the natives continue to be preserved.
“Of the total allocation, RM69.98 million is for allowance and administrative expenses for State Customary Chiefs.
“Meanwhile, RM2.70 million has been allocated to continue the Native Court construction project in Tamparuli, Sook and Paitan,” he said when officiating the “Empowering Native Justice – The Way Forward” seminar here on Saturday.
The text of his speech was delivered by Deputy Chief Minister cum Minister of Works Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Joachim Gunsalam.
Also present was the Sabah Council of Justices of the Peace (MAJAPS) President, Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Clarence B. Malakun, JP.
The Chief Minister said that the legislation governing indigenous customs should be reviewed and streamlined in line with current conditions and needs.
He said that there are laws relating to indigenous people that have been enacted since colonial times and should be reviewed and improved.
“The law was born in an atmosphere and reality that is very different from our lives today. Today, Sabah has changed. Our society has changed.
“Economic values, social structures and life challenges have changed so rapidly. So the law must also change, not to deny customs and heritage, but to ensure that justice continues to be relevant and functional.
“Therefore, I hope that this seminar will be a forum for bold, honest discussions centred on Sabah’s interests, in order to find a fair and comprehensive solution,” he said.
He said that efforts to strengthen the laws and indigenous justice system are not a step backwards.
“On the contrary, this is a step forward – a bold step to ensure Sabah moves into the future without sacrificing its identity and heritage,” he said.
He said this programme is very meaningful and significant to the future of the people of Sabah, especially the state’s children.
“Sabah is a state rich in indigenous customs, identities and culture that have been rooted for generations.
