KUCHING: A federal cabinet minister has shot down a proposal by a DAP assemblyman to include third generation Sarawakians of Chinese, Indian or any race not mentioned in the Schedule of the Interpretation Ordinance to be considered as natives of the state.
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Parliament and Law) Datuk Seri Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar pointed out that the matter raised by Sarawak DAP chairman Chong Chieng Jen is without basis.
“This is something new that is not found in the constitution, Malaysia Act, Intergovernmental Committee (IGC) report, Cobbold Commission report or even documents under the Consultative Committee Report 1963.
“This is a matter of policy and politics, not a question of the law. Even if it is the third or fourth generation, there must be a connection (marriage) with a native of Sarawak, then only the children and grandchildren can be considered as a native.
“If there is no such connection, how could you want to become a native?” he questioned.
He aired his views yesterday (Feb 15) during a Zoom session with New Sarawak Tribune and Suara Sarawak.
The Santubong MP pointed out that the amendments to Article 161A clauses (6) and (7) did not affect or assume the roles and functions of the Sarawak Native Court.
“My personal opinion on this is that if you are a native, you are one and if you’re not a native then you are not. There is a mechanism.
“If there is any individual who believes that he or she should be considered as a native and it is compatible with the native group’s wish then a request of application can be made to the court,” he said.
