Go after mountain nudists without any fear - former Chief Minister

KOTA KINABALU - The authorities should take stern action against the mountain nudists without fear, said former chief minister Datuk Yong Teck Lee.

“Their vulgarities and nude acts bordering on group orgy at Mount Kinabalu has deeply hurt the dignity of their hosts, the Sabah people, and the awe and respect that people have for the majestic mountain that we call Kinabalu, the symbol of the unity of the Sabah people," he said.

"The mountain nudists have deliberately and maliciously desecrated our national symbol and the beliefs of local people towards the mountain."

Yong said that instead of showing remorse, the mountain nudists have instead continued to spew insults at Sabah.

"No self-respecting country would tolerate such uncouth behaviour by their guests.
Therefore, the authorities should take stern action against the mountain nudists,” he added.

“What is so special about this group of mountain nudists? After all, a Sabahan woman who stripped naked in KL last April was arrested and charged under the Penal Code. A group of nudists at a Penang beach last year was hauled up by the police.

“Fear not in taking action against these few so-called tourists. Visitors know that Sabahans are a friendly people. In return, visitors show courtesy to us. That is the way it should be,” he added.

Yong who is also Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP) president also observed that the tragic earthquake that killed scores of mountain climbers and guides over the weekend has brought Sabahans together in a sharing of grief.

“The spontaneous out pouring of grief among ordinary people as shown in the candle vigil in downtown Kota Kinabalu in tribute to Mount Kinabalu earthquake victims and in the mainstream and social media has arouse the sense of belonging as Sabahans.

“The mountain guides who heroically saved climbers beyond their call of duty and even sacrificed their lives have made Sabahans proud of ourselves and self-confident as Sabahans.

"That the tragic earthquake has brought the awe of Mount Kinabalu into our lives should also remind us all that the Mount Kinabalu in the Sabah flag denotes unity of the people and has a special place in our hearts,” he added.