Call on lawmakers to pass legislation recognising gold as legal tender

KUCHING (Sept 25): A call has been made for Sarawak lawmakers to pass legislation that would recognise gold as legal tender within the state.

In this regard, political activist Lina Soo has proposed the introduction of a ‘Sarawak Gold Bullion’ or ‘Specie Legal Tender Act’, saying that this move can provide a financial platform that operates within regulatory compliance, while also ensuring independence from traditional financial systems.

“Instead of waiting for the day we can have our own Sarawak currency, we can legitimise gold now as legal tender through a Sarawak Gold Bullion or Specie Legal Tender Act.

“Gold, as a legal tender, provides a financial platform that operates within regulatory compliance, while maintaining independence from the traditional financial system,” she said during a press conference at a hotel here yesterday, called after the launch of her book ‘Gold Is Not Sexy’.

Soo said with Sarawak’s legal recognition of gold as a legitimate form of currency, this law would reinforce the principles of financial autonomy, security and economic justice.

This, she added, would offer the state government and Sarawakians a stable and reliable form of currency that could safeguard against inflation, and underscore the practicality and potential to revolutionise how one would think of and use money.

“This ensures a future where Sarawak’s economic security and financial independence can prevail,” she said.

On her new book, Soo said the it was released in conjunction with the 183rd anniversary of Sarawak’s founding.

She expressed her intention of making meaningful contributions every year on this date, saying that Sept 24, 1841 was the date when Sarawak was founded by Englishman, Sir James Brooke.

“Every Sept 24, I like to do something significant. This year, I am releasing my book, which explores how gold can transform Sarawak’s economy and promote financial independence.”

She said the inspiration for her book stemmed, in part, from the aspirations of two local politicians who had called for Sarawak’s financial independence and the establishment of a unique Sarawak currency.

“My research indicates that these goals are achievable, and gold is the key to unlocking these freedoms,” she added.