PENAMPANG: Sabah PKR Chairman Datuk Mustapha Sakmud appealed to the Home Ministry to assist in addressing citizenship issues involving marriages between locals and foreigners.
He highlighted several pressing concerns in the State, including late birth registrations and complications arising from mixed marriages, particularly between locals and Filipinos.
“These situations have led to documentation challenges for many Sabahans,” he said, during a Madani dinner reception at ITCC, Saturday.
“We are seeing numerous cases where Sabahans are facing difficulties due to citizenship and documentation issues.
SPONSORED CONTENT 800 expected at Sabah CEO Master Class 2024 on August 8 Kota Kinabalu: Wish to know and learn meaningful lessons and entrepreneurial journeys from giant business owners who also faced various hard challenges and succeeded in overcoming them? . Read more “It is crucial that we address these matters promptly and effectively,” he said.
He said the Home Ministry’s involvement and cooperation is crucial as these long-standing issues affected many families in Sabah.
Mustapha said PKR Vice President Awang Husaini Sahari as the new citizenship bureau chairman would be tasked with investigating and addressing citizenship-related issues.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, who was present, acknowledged the various challenges faced by Sabahans. He assured that his Ministry would continue its efforts to ensure safety and security in the State.
“We are aware of the unique situations in Sabah and we’re committed to working closely with local authorities to find solutions,” Saifuddin said.
Meanwhile, Saifuddin also noted the improved safety and security situation in Sabah’s east coast and a significant increase in foreign tourists visiting the area.
He also commended State Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Christina Liew for her efforts in attracting international visitors to the region.
Saifuddin cited his recent visit to the islands of Sipadan, Kapalai, and Mabul alongside Christina as evidence of the area’s growing appeal.
The trip included representatives from nine countries, namely the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Denmark, Japan, Germany, France, Canada, and Finland. They were invited to personally assess the security situation in Semporna.
“I’m pleased that Sabah’s east coast is now brimming with tourists. This is a testament to the hard work put in by our security forces and local authorities to ensure the safety of both residents and visitors,” he said
He also praised the Government’s strategy of offering visa-free entry to travellers from more than 50 countries, crediting this policy with boosting tourist arrivals and solidifying Malaysia’s position as a top travel destination.
“This approach has been particularly beneficial for Sabah. We’re seeing a surge in international visitors, which is great news for the local economy and the tourism industry as a whole.
“It’s important that we maintain this positive momentum and continue to showcase Sabah as a world-class destination,” he said.
On the political front he spoke about PKR’s commitment to serving the people.
He said PKR’s core values and its dedication is to addressing the needs and concerns of ordinary citizens.
“PKR has always been, and will continue to be, a party that puts the people first. Our policies and initiatives are designed with the welfare of all Malaysians in mind, regardless of their background or social status,” he said.
“We believe in creating a Malaysia where every citizen has the opportunity to thrive.”
He also touched on PKR’s commitment to good governance, saying that these principles are crucial for maintaining the trust of the people.
“Our party understands that to truly serve the people, we must be accountable and transparent in all our actions,” he said.
He hinted that party President Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who is also Prime Minister will be announcing more at the convention scheduled to take place at the Sabah International Convention Centre today (Sunday).
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