Borneo NGOs voice concern over indigenous sovereignty, self-determination following Malaysia’s intention to join BRICS

Dancers dressed in traditional attire celebrating Gawai Dayak in this file photo.

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, June 30: Two non-governmental organisations (NGOs) have voiced concerns over indigenous sovereignty following Malaysia’s intention to join BRICS (the intergovernmental organisation (IGO) comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa).

In a joint statement by Andrew Ambrose of Sabah Defender of Ancestral Lands (MOPOT) and Peter John Jaban of Sabah Sarawak Indigenous Peoples Alliance (GOASS) today, they said the decision raises critical issues in the two Borneo states, such as the Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC).

According to them, Prime Minister Dato Seri Anwar Ibrahim and his federal government must adhere to FPIC principles in all decisions related to international alliances like BRICS, ensuring meaningful consultation with indigenous communities and traditional customary and spiritual leaders before any commitments are made by the Malaysian State and Territories.

“The Prime Minister must address historical injustices, including discriminatory practices, inadequate resource sharing, and political marginalisation faced by indigenous peoples in Sabah and Sarawak, which must be a priority in Malaysia’s international engagements.

“The Prime Minister must apologise to Sabah and Sarawak natives for 61 years of neglect and discrimination against the indigenous native peoples and their ancestors,” they said.

Among others, the NGOs are demanding for cultural preservation which involves preserving and promoting indigenous cultures, languages, and traditions, and which must be safeguarded against the pressures of globalisation and external economic interests such as guaranteed in the Batu Sumpah Keningau.

This, they said, includes commitment to environmental sustainability and conservation, particularly concerning the fragile ecosystems and biodiversity within indigenous territories, waters and food systems.

“The Prime Minister must also ensure that any international agreements and alliances do not compromise existing legal protections and human rights frameworks that safeguard indigenous rights in Malaysia particularly in Borneo territories where indigenous natives have nations within nations.

“MOPOT and GOASS emphasize that Malaysia’s potential entry into BRICS must not undermine any rights and aspirations of indigenous peoples in Sabah and Sarawak self determination and liberation.

“We call upon the Prime Minister and his federal government to prioritise indigenous sovereignty, self-determination, and meaningful consultation in all decisions that impact our future,” the statement read. — DayakDaily