Tenom: The Murut community, particularly in the Tenom district, expressed solid support for the Sabah Government’s efforts to empower and uphold the Native Court (Man) institution through the passing of the Native Courts Bill 2026 by the State Legislative Assembly.
Murut Kolor Tenom Chairperson Sinimpong @ Rohani Ganjau @ Abdullah said the reform is a vital step in strengthening the position of the Native Court as an institution that plays a role in preserving, defending and enforcing the customs and culture of Sabah’s native communities.
She said for the Murut community, in particular, the Native Court is not merely a customary legal institution but also a symbol of identity, dignity, heritage and self-identity inherited across generations.
According to her, efforts to strengthen the institution are crucial to ensuring that the customs and traditions of the native communities remain preserved and respected by future generations.
She hoped that the reform would enhance the administrative effectiveness of the Native Court, in addition to reinforcing the roles of Native Chiefs and Village Heads in ensuring that the customary legal system continues to function effectively and receives due recognition.
