Carbon trade must respect native rights

BAU: The carbon trading industry must not infringe on the rights and resources of indigenous peoples, both in Malaysia and across Southeast Asia, said Asia Indigenous Peoples Pact (AIPP) Secretary-General Gam A. Shimray.

Shimray said the industry should protect not only the rights of indigenous peoples but also their resources and livelihoods.

“Despite advances in recognising indigenous rights, some countries exploit loopholes in their laws to seize resources from indigenous communities,” he said.

“For instance, Cambodia has a law replacing the term ‘Indigenous’ or ‘Orang Asal’ with ‘local community’.

Other countries continue to prosecute indigenous rights defenders.”Shimray said this in a speech delivered by Pertubuhan Suara Anak Sabah president Adrian Banie Lasimbang at the national-level World Indigenous Peoples Day (PHOAS) celebration hosted by the Sarawak indigenous community at Redeems Centre today (Aug 9).

Adrian (third from left) hits the gong during the officiation of the celebration.

He urged the international community to stand in solidarity with indigenous peoples and work towards peace, justice, and environmental protection.

“We will continue striving for peace, justice, and the preservation of land and the environment for the benefit of all,” he added.

Under the theme “Take Back Our Rights,” this year’s PHOAS celebration highlights Malaysian indigenous peoples’ determination to reclaim their rights and actively contribute to national development.

Organised by Jaringan Orang Asal SeMalaysia (JOAS), representing 100 grassroots indigenous organisations nationwide, the event featured cultural exhibits, a forum on land rights and environmental sustainability, traditional sports, and a showcase of indigenous arts, crafts, and cuisine.

World Indigenous Peoples Day, observed annually on August 9, is a global platform to promote and safeguard the rights of indigenous peoples worldwide.

Malaysia, with 13.8% of its population comprising indigenous peoples, continues to address challenges affecting their rights despite progress since adopting the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) in 2007.

Also present were JOAS president Paulus Gahin, JOAS vice president (Sarawak Region) Muna Getor, and other dignitaries.