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Daily Express
a day ago
- Politics
- Daily Express
Speed up surveys for Sarawak native customary land, Nurul Izzah says
Published on: Friday, June 27, 2025 Published on: Fri, Jun 27, 2025 By: FMT Reporters Text Size: PKR deputy president Nurul Izzah Anwar said that for communities such as the Iban, Bidayuh, Orang Ulu, and Penan, land is more than just a place to live. PETALING JAYA: PKR deputy president Nurul Izzah Anwar has called for the expedition of land surveys and ownership approvals for native customary land in Sarawak, and a halt to the issuance of new licences on disputed land. She said for communities such as the Iban, Bidayuh, Orang Ulu, and Penan, land was more than just a place to live. 'It is their source of livelihood, a place for worship, where they celebrate their customs and raise their families. Most importantly, it is part of their soul and identity. 'I urge that the process of surveying and granting ownership of native customary land be expedited, and that no new licences be issued on land still under dispute,' she said in a statement. Citing veteran advocates like Harrison Ngau and the late Bill Kayong, she said their unwavering spirit must live on. 'This spirit shines through their struggle – never afraid despite pressure, never silent even when sidelined. Their resilience reminds me that this is a fight worth continuing, to defend the native customary rights that form part of Sarawak's soul and history.' Although native customary rights are recognised under federal law and the Sarawak Land Code, Nurul Izzah said only a fraction of such land had been formally surveyed and allowed legal ownership. 'Many remain unresolved. As a result, the majority of indigenous communities are vulnerable to encroachment, forced eviction, and exploitation,' she said. She also criticised the expansion of oil palm plantations and logging activities which she said had come at the expense of these communities. 'Land is leased to large companies without consultation, without consent, and without proper compensation,' she said. While courts have repeatedly affirmed native rights based on ancestral customs and in line with the Federal Constitution and international human rights standards, she said enforcement remained inconsistent. 'This has forced many indigenous people to face serious legal, bureaucratic, and financial challenges just to have their rights recognised. 'All development must receive free, prior and informed consent from the land's original owners, and fair compensation must be given to any affected or displaced community,' she added. Last month, the Sarawak government affirmed its commitment to recognising and protecting legitimate native customary rights over land, in accordance with land laws. Deputy premier Awang Tengah Ali Hasan said that since the New NCR Land Survey Initiative began in October 2010, up to April 30 this year, a total of 1,200,766 hectares had been surveyed perimetrically. 'Of this, around 935,760ha have been gazetted as Bumiputera Communal Reserves (Agriculture) under Section 6 of the Sarawak Land Code. These surveying efforts are based on applications from the communities involved,' he said. Awang Tengah said that since 2017, surveying efforts had also covered individual lots for land titles in gazetted areas where claimants had applied and were ready. He added that as of April 30, 99,438 individual lots had been surveyed, covering 118,749ha, with land titles issued or in the process of being issued. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
Sinar Daily
3 days ago
- Politics
- Sinar Daily
Steven Sim slams Pas leader for questioning Johnny Lim's appointment
'When the enemy's bullets come, they don't ask whether our soldiers are Malay, Chinese, Indian, Kadazan, Iban or Orang Asli," he said. Human Resources Minister and Penang DAP chairman Steven Sim - Photo by Bernama SHAH ALAM – DAP urges the authorities to take stern action against a Pas leader who questioned the appointment of Datuk Johnny Lim Eng Seng as the first Chinese Lieutenant General in the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF). Penang DAP chairman Steven Sim said he was disappointed and saddened by the statement made by Sungai Buloh Pas chief Zaharudin Muhammad, who questioned Lim's appointment just because he was Chinese. Sim stressed that Lim was indeed qualified to hold the position as he has served more than 40 years with the MAF. 'The statement by the Pas leader actually insults the thousands of young Malaysians who wear the military uniform every day, willingly being away from their families, rain or shine, sleeping in jungles and at borders to sacrifice and protect the sovereignty of this country. 'When the enemy's bullets come, they don't ask whether our soldiers are Malay, Chinese, Indian, Kadazan, Iban or Orang Asli. But when an appointment is announced, there are those who place race above recognition for service and sacrifice to the nation,' he said in a statement, today. Datuk Johnny Lim Eng Seng during an interview at the National Resilience College in Putrajaya. The Human Resources Minister said Zaharudin's statement on Lim's appointment also appeared to undermine the trust of the MAF and the Yang di-Pertuan Agong as the Supreme Commander of the armed forces. 'Such malicious statements reveal the true attitude of Pas towards the non-Muslim community in this country. 'Is the sacrifice of this Lieutenant General, over 41 years of service still not 'worthy' of celebration in his view? 'Should a soldier's love for this country be measured by the colour of his skin?,' he asked. Sim said he also wondered whether Zaharuddin had ever heard the name of Rear Admiral (Rtd) Tan Sri K. Thanabalasingam, the country's first local Royal Malaysian Navy chief. 'Has Zaharuddin ever heard of Brigadier General (Rtd) Datuk Seri Goh Seng Toh and many other non-Malays of the soil who have held high positions in the MAF? 'Statements that are racial, seditious and treasonous in tone such as this deserve to be met with firm legal action as a lesson to politicians, regardless of party, to never play with the fire of racism,' he said.
The Star
3 days ago
- The Star
Sarawak eyes another Unesco nod
SARAWAK could soon have another Unesco world heritage site after the Mulu and Niah national parks. The state is pursuing the nomination of the Fort Trails for possible recognition as an intangible cultural heritage under Unesco. A total of 23 historical forts were built in Sarawak during the Brooke era but only 14 remain standing today. The state regards the surviving structures and the intangible cultural heritage linked to them as a vital part of Sarawak's identity. The surviving forts are Fort Margherita in Kuching, which was built in 1879, Fort Sylvia (1880, Kapit), Fort Emma (1851, Kanowit), Fort Lily (1858, Betong), Fort Alice (1849, Sri Aman), Fort Arundell (1912, Lubok Antu), Fort Charles (1895, Kabong), Fort Brooke (1935, Julau), Fort Lio Mato (1911, Marudi), Fort Long Akah (1929, Marudi), Fort Hose (1898, Marudi) and Old Fort (1897, Limbang). Sarawak Deputy Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Snowdan Lawan brought up the matter during a recent courtesy visit to the Unesco headquarters in Paris. The ministry considers the Fort Trails as more than just architectural conservation, as it also embodies the oral traditions and collective memories of Sarawak's multi-ethnic communities. 'The forts were often built with the support of local communities who contributed belian timber, labour, food and knowledge of the terrain. Their stories have been passed down through generations,' Snowdan said in a statement. He said the ministry would collaborate with the National Heritage Department, the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry and Malaysia's Permanent Delegation to Unesco to pursue the recognition. He also shared Sarawak's aspirations during a meeting with Fumiko Ohinata, the secretary of the Unesco Convention for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage, noting plans to eventually nominate other cultural practices from the state's 34 ethnic communities. The surviving forts located across Sarawak boast a rich cultural heritage. Fort Lily Fort Lily is a historical fort in the town of Betong and the oldest in Sarawak. It was built in 1858 by James Brooke, the first Rajah of Sarawak, as a government administrative centre and to provide protection from attacks by Iban warriors led by Rentap. The origin of its name is unknown. Later, it was used as a police station and as government offices before becoming vacant. Fort Charles Named after the second Rajah, Charles Brooke, Fort Charles was built in 1879 in Kabong. It was the second fort to be built in Kabong, the first also bearing the same name. That fort was washed into the sea in 1893 due to a sudden high tide and was subsequently abandoned, although it had been strengthened a few months before the incident to withstand the monsoon. The fort was later replaced in 1895 and the building is still standing despite being built over 100 years ago. It still serves the same purpose as the government administrative centre for the Kabong district. Fort Sylvia Fort Sylvia is now a museum showcasing the history and cultural heritage of Kapit. Fort Sylvia was built in 1878 and still serves as a landmark in Kapit town. It was originally called Fort Kapit before being renamed in the 1920s after Ranee Sylvia, the wife of the third Rajah, Charles Vyner Brooke. According to historical accounts, the Brooke administration had authorised the construction of a fort at Sungai Baleh before 1874. A fort was needed because there was only one government outpost at Sungai Ngeman, which was quite a distance from Sungai Baleh. The Brooke administration had hoped that the new fort would control the migration of the Ibans to Baleh. However in 1877, Charles Brooke nearly drowned near the Baleh Fort when his steamer was swept against the riverbank by strong currents. The fort was ordered to be demolished and Fort Sylvia was built to take over its functions. Construction started in 1878 and the wooden structure was completed two years later. The fort, which stands in the heart of Kapit town, previously served as a government administrative centre. It is now a museum showcasing the history and cultural heritage of Kapit. Fort Margherita stands on a bank of the Sarawak River in Kuching. The Brooke government strategically located the fort at the highest point of the river to guard against enemy attack. Fort Margherita Fort Margherita in Kuching was built in 1879 and named after Ranee Margaret, the wife of the second Rajah, Charles Brooke. The Brooke government strategically located the fort at the highest point of the Sarawak River to guard against enemy attack. The original fort was located near the former Police Field Force Brigade headquarters and was built with local materials. Fort Margherita came under heavy attack during World War II from Japanese air raids in December 1941. This three-storey fort has the shape of a square with a bastion protruding from the left side. Under Charles Brooke, it was used as a defensive fort for the army, an armoury store, a prison and central control. Seen from the entrance is a room which was previously used as an office while the upper floor was the quarters for the guards. To the left of the office are two cells for prisoners. Fort Margherita was once a police museum and now houses the Brooke Gallery. Fort Emma Fort Emma, located in Kanowit, was constructed of belian wood and bamboo in 1859. It was initially erected to inhibit the numerous raids by the local Ibans on the Rajang Melanaus and other ethnic groups. The rectangular building immortalises the name of James Brooke's sister. During the Japanese occupation, Fort Emma was the nerve centre of the entire district. Fort Emma remains a sight to behold, standing on high ground and overlooking the surrounding area. Fort Emma in Kanowit is built from belian wood and bamboo. Fort Alice Originally known Fort James, this fort was built in 1849 in Skrang. The fort was moved by Charles Brooke in 1864 to Sri Aman due to the strategic location. It was later renamed Fort Alice after his wife, Ranee Margaret Alice. The fort was used as an administrative centre, jail, court, the centre of defence and hospital during the Brooke era. It now houses the Sri Aman Heritage Museum, showcasing the history of the fort building and events that influenced the history of Sri Aman. Fort Arundell The fort was named in honour of the Resident of Sri Aman, Gilbert Roger Harris Arundell, in appreciation of his kindness to the Iban community. He was killed in Ulu Ai in 1942 during a Japanese attack in World War II. It is now an administrative centre housing various government agencies. Fort Brooke Located in Nanga Meluan, Julau, this fort is entirely built from belian wood. It originally housed the Brooke administration's police and troops, including officials sent to safeguard government activities and security. The fort was also once used as a sub-district office and police station. A graphic showing the location of some of the forts in Sarawak. Fort Lio Mato This fort, built in 1918 once served as an administration centre and court by locals at Lio Mato. During the 1963 Malaysia-Indonesia confrontation, it was used as a defence against intruding Indonesian troops. It is located about 50km from the Sarawak-Kalimantan border. Fort Long Akah It was built in 1929 as an administrative centre during the Brooke era. It later served as a base camp for British soldiers defending the Baram area against the Japanese Occupation. The fort was also used as a centre to teach locals how to read and write English. Fort Hose Built in 1898, Fort Hose is situated on a bank of Sungai Baram in Marudi. According to the Sarawak Museum Department, it was used to monitor the activities of the rebels who opposed Brooke rule. In 1899, a peace accord between the local ethnic groups was held at the fort, followed by the Baram regatta. The building was however destroyed by fire in 1994. It was rebuilt in 1996 and converted into the Baram District Museum. Among the exhibits are ethnography and the history and heritage of the local communities such as Kayan, Kenyah, Kelabit and Penan.
Borneo Post
5 days ago
- Science
- Borneo Post
Unesco field evaluators arrive to conduct final assessment for Sarawak Delta Geopark
Hamden puts a sash with traditional Iban motifs on Pagés while Jiménez looks on. — Photo by Roystein Emmor KUCHING (June 24): Two United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (Unesco) field evaluators arrived here yesterday to conduct the final evaluation of the Sarawak Delta Geopark (SDGp) for Unesco Global Geopark (UGGp) status. Jean-Simon Pagés from France and Antonio Garcia Jiménez from Spain were welcomed at the Kuching International Airport arrival hall by Sarawak director of forests Datu Hamden Mohammad. 'We are proud to announce that the Unesco field evaluation mission is scheduled for June 23 to 26. This mission represents the final, most critical step in becoming the first Unesco Global Geopark in the state,' he said. Hamden said during the four-day mission, the two evaluators would visit a range of significant sites showcasing the unique geological, biological and cultural diversity of the Sarawak Delta. These include the Schist Tuang in Semeba and Paku Rock Maze in Bau; Wind Cave Nature Reserve in Bau; Semenggoh Nature Reserve in Padawan; Borneo Cultures Museum in Kuching; Sarawak Cultural Village in Santubong; Kampung Peros, Krokong in Bau; and SMK Paku in Bau. He said this was a pivotal milestone that would determine whether the SDGp meets the rigorous UGGp standards set by Unesco. 'It also represents a significant opportunity to highlight Sarawak's commitment to sustainable development, geo-conservation, education and community empowerment through geopark initiatives.' The SDGp is a unique region that features rich geological diversity and stunning landscapes spanning an area of 3,112 square kilometres. Hamden (third left) takes a group photo with Pagés (fourth left) and Jiménez (fourth right). — Photo by Roystein Emmor It is home to various indigenous tribes that not only sustain themselves, but preserve and cultivate their distinct cultures and traditions. The region's geological history reflects significant transformations in the Earth's surface, driven by tectonic activity around 250 million years ago. The changes are not confined to Southeast Asia, but also illustrate geological phenomena spanning both Europe and Asia — as a result, many sites within the Sarawak Delta represent geological heritage of international significance. 'The SDGp team extends its sincere appreciation to all partners, stakeholders and local communities who have contributed to the preparation for this evaluation. We look forward to a successful mission that will place Sarawak on the global geopark map,' said Hamden. geology Hamden Mohammad Sarawak Delta Geopark Unesco Global geopark
The Sun
6 days ago
- Business
- The Sun
Embrace diversity as a strength, not a source of division
KUCHING: Racial diversity should be embraced as a strength to enhance national unity, rather than as a battleground for rivalry or a means to showcase superiority and ego, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said. He said that in many other countries, such diversity has led to racial and religious hostility, eventually burdening the nation and negatively affecting the people. 'Unity within our multiracial society is increasingly essential to ensure that Malaysia remains strong amid the current uncertain global geopolitical landscape. 'Never underestimate the potential problems if you are disunited. The geopolitical conditions are so challenging and alarming. The future is never certain. But what we can ensure is a united Malaysia,' he said. Anwar was speaking at the 2025 Sarawak-level Gawai Dayak celebration dinner at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) here tonight, which was also attended by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg. Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Sarawak Tun Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar and his wife Toh Puan Fauziah Mohd Sanusi were the guests of honour at the event. Anwar said as prime minister, he feels proud in showcasing the country's cultural and racial diversity, especially as Malaysia assumes the ASEAN chairmanship this year and when receiving foreign dignitaries and corporate leaders. He said this was exemplified during a recent meeting with ConocoPhillips Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Ryan Lance, where he wore a traditional Iban outfit gifted to him earlier by Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi. 'So I told him (Ryan) about Sarawak, about the beauty of the culture, that's what we have to do. And I take great pride as a Malaysian to speak to one of the great multi-billion dollar companies, probably one of the biggest oil companies in the world and number one in the United States,' he said. Meanwhile, Anwar also announced that he will meet with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto this Friday to discuss a proposal for Sarawak to be positioned as a hub for the ASEAN Power Grid (APG). He said Sarawak, with its strengths in hydroelectric, gas and hydrogen energy, has the potential to spearhead the APG, not only by linking to Sabah and Indonesia's Kalimantan, but also extending to the southern Philippines.
