Local natives cried foul against priority given to outsiders, hidden agenda

KOTA KINABALU - Datuk Seri Shafie and his Warisan-led government just seem unable to steer clear of controversies.  Many have questioned their alleged hidden agenda previously and are now questioning their ability and capability in administering Sabah properly.

The latest issue to be viralled in social media and irking local netizens is Shafie’s purportedly directive to the Director of Lands and Surveys to give priority for the application of 180 acres of land in Kg, Biah Skim, Sook, Pensiangan, by 12 applicants, 10 of which are alleged to be Suluks.

“While there should not be an issue of Suluks or any other native community in applying for State lands, Shafie should explain his actions on the said 180 acres land application and address the concerns of the local community, particularly those living in the area applied for,” said Dr. Jeffrey.

The local natives are saying “we do not even have enough lands for our own local community, why give priority to the application of these outsiders?  We do not want trouble and social disruption in our community who are mostly Muruts.”

“The local community in Kg. Biah Skim are justified in their concerns and I hope Shafie should address their concerns and not let matters get out of hand” added Dr. Jeffrey.

His previous actions in prioritizing illegal immigrants and non-Sabahans is not helping calm the concerns of the genuine Sabahans in the latest controversy.

Meantime, Jeffrey’s fellow Gabungan Bersatu Sabah colleague and Assemblyperson for Sook, where the land applied for is situated, agreed that the welfare and concerns of the local natives in Sook should be prioritized not outsiders and that he will do his best to ensure that the interests and welfare of the local community will be prioritized.