Ewon: Get Sabah’s input before announcing decisions affecting state

PETAGAS (Feb 26): Sabah’s input must be considered before announcing decisions that concern the state, said Deputy Chief Minister III Datuk Ewon Benedick.

He was commenting on Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s announcement, during a joint press conference with Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi in Kuala Lumpur, on Feb 8 supporting India’s decision to open a new consulate in Kota Kinabalu.

“I want to say that whatever announcement concerning Sabah, Sabah’s opinions must be heard first. We don’t want the announcement to be made prior to getting Sabah’s input,” Ewon said during the Persatuan Anak Malaysia Sabah (PAMS) buka puasa at Kampung Contoh Kuala Petagas near here on Wednesday.

“The best would be to ask us first and we give the response. I feel that is the best.”

He said the setting up of consulates is a normal matter in any country.

“It can ease trade matters, tourism, and cooperation between one country and the relevant government, but I don’t want to make any comment without knowing the foundation as to why the proposal was announced prior to discussion.

“At least let us know the foundation of the proposal so that would make it easier. If it is related to trade, for example, a need relating to the CPO (crude palm oil) product based on Malaysian palm oil, where most comes from Sabah, as one of the bases for the discussion, Sabah could be informed first,” he said.

He stated it would be unfair to respond prior to getting background on the discussion between Anwar and Narendra.

“What is best is for the federal government to provide background on the discussion between the two prime ministers; then anyone in Sabah can make a comment,” he said.

Ewon added the views of Sabahans on the matter must be heard.

On Monday, Anwar had said he agreed to support India’s decision to open a consulate in Kota Kinabalu as part of efforts to strengthen bilateral ties.

He opined the establishment of the consulate reflects the deepening trust and growing friendship between Malaysia and India.