Upko decries inaction on illegals

Opposition SAPP Youth led RCI campaign on PTI

The Home Ministry is not serious in tackling the illegal immigants (PTIS) issue in Sabah, said United Pasokmomogun Kadazandusun Murut Organisation (UPKO).

Its treasurer-generaI, Datuk Dr Marcus Mojigoh, alleges that there seemed to be a lack of political will in addressing the matter.

"When something like this is debated in Parliament, they tried so hard to evade the issue. They always beat around the bush when asked by Sabah MPs. lt is annoying getting that negative reaction," he told. The Bornea Pos, when asked to comment on the public outcry following the murder of van driver Joni Somudin by a robber.


He urged the Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak to do something about it.

Mojigoh said a memorandum on illegal immigrants had been submitted to the Federal Government by UPKO deputy presidernt Datuk Wilfred Bumburing sometime last year, but he does not know what has become of the memorandum.

"I think they just throw the memorandum into the rubbish bin," he said.

Mojigoh said the people are already fed up and that the people could see how useless it is even with their representatives voicing their grouses on their behalf.

He said that while foreign labourers are crucial for Sabah development, particulary, in the construction industry, it is imperative to ensure  they are here legally.

"The bad hats have to be screened. Those who have no business to be in Sabah must be sent back," he said.

Mojigoh also stressed the need to facilitate their work passes, adding that foreigners who overstay and do not have any document must be arrested and deported to their home country.

However, the lack of a positive directive and effort to address the problem has made it difficult for enforcement agencies to act on the issue.

The lack of a positive direction and effort has also, according to Mojigoh, led the people to perceive that the minister in charge is not keen in solving the problem.

By Janne Lajiun BP