Sabah strengthening Native Courts with clear jurisdiction and RM84.4 mln allocation

KOTA KINABALU (Jan 24): The state government is working to further strengthen the Native Courts with clear and adequate jurisdiction, a robust institutional structure, and officers who are principled and credible.

Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor said this also includes the adoption of modern, orderly and effective procedures.

As such, he said that this year the state government, through the Sabah Native Affairs Department, has allocated RM84.40 million for operating expenditure and the implementation of various programmes to ensure that the welfare and customs of the natives continue to be preserved.

“Of the total allocation, RM69.98 million is for allowance payments and administrative expenses for Native Chiefs.

“Meanwhile, RM2.70 million has been allocated to continue the construction projects of the Native Courts in Tamparuli, Sook and Paitan,” he said when officiating the seminar titled ‘Empowering Native Justice – The Way Forward’ here on Saturday.

His speech text was delivered by Deputy Chief Minister I and Minister of Works, Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Joachim Gunsalam.

The chief minister said that legislation governing native customs should be reviewed and refined in line with current conditions and needs.

He noted that some laws related to native affairs were enacted during the colonial era and should be revisited and improved.

“These laws were born in circumstances and realities that are very different from our lives today. Today, Sabah has changed. Our society has changed.

“Economic values, social structures and life’s challenges have evolved rapidly. Therefore, the law must also change, not to deny customs and heritage, but to ensure that justice remains relevant and functional.

“Therefore, I hope this seminar will serve as a platform for bold and honest discussions, grounded in Sabah’s interests, to seek fair and comprehensive solutions,” he said.

He added that efforts to strengthen native laws and the native justice system are not a step backwards.

“On the contrary, this is a step forward, a courageous move to ensure that Sabah progresses into the future without sacrificing its identity and heritage,” he said.

He said the programme is meaningful and significant for the future of the people of Sabah, especially the natives.

“Sabah is a state rich in native customs, identity and culture that have been deeply rooted for generations.”