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Nicholas Mujah Ason
KUCHING (July 17): Sarawak can lead the nation in democratic reforms by reinstating local council elections, said activist Nicholas Mujah Ason.
Mujah, who is Sarawak Dayak Iban Association (Sadia) secretary-general, said this would demonstrate Sarawak’s commitment to participatory governance.
He strongly believed this initiative, free from federal government constraints, is vital for promoting democracy at the grassroots level.
“Reinstating local council elections in Sarawak is not merely a political reform; it is a reaffirmation of our commitment to democratic principles and grassroots empowerment.
“It recognises the rights of indigenous and local communities to participate in decisions that directly affect their lives. We urge all stakeholders, including the state government, civil society, and the public to support this critical democratic initiative.
“Together, let us lead by example and show the world that Sarawak is capable of pioneering democratic reforms and fostering an inclusive and participatory governance structure for all its citizens,” he said.
Mujah pointed out that as a representative of Indigenous Peoples’ Civil Society Organizations (IP CSOs), he unequivocally supports Bandar Kuching MP Dr Kelvin Yii’s call for the reinstatement of local council elections in Sarawak.
He said Dr Yii had rightly emphasised that democracy should permeate every level of governance, not just the upper echelons during the recent ‘#KitaAdaNombor’ delineation campaign forum.
“Local council elections are a cornerstone of true democratic governance, enabling communities to have a direct say in decisions that impact their daily lives,” he added..
He also emphasised that Sarawak and Sabah have special provisions and protections under Malaysian law, empowering both Borneo states to pass laws allowing local council elections.
“This legal framework highlights the unique status and autonomy of our states within the Malaysian federation,” added Mujah.
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