Borneo’s NGOs raise concerns about indigenous sovereignty and self-determination following Malaysia’s intention to join BRICS

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By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, June 30: Two non-governmental organisations (NGOs) have raised concerns about indigenous sovereignty following Malaysia’s intention to join the BRICS group (the intergovernmental organisation (IGO) comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa).

Andrew Ambrose of Sabah Defender of Ancestral Lands (MOPOT) and Peter John Jaban of Sabah Sarawak Indigenous Peoples Alliance (GOASS) said in a joint statement today that the decision raises critical issues in the two Borneo states, such as free, prior and informed consent (FPIC).

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In their view, Prime Minister Dato Seri Anwar Ibrahim and his government must adhere to the FPIC principles in all decisions related to international alliances such as BRICS and ensure meaningful consultation with indigenous communities and traditional, customary and spiritual leaders before the Malaysian state and territories make any commitments.

“The Prime Minister must address historical injustices, including discriminatory practices, inadequate resource distribution and political marginalisation of indigenous peoples in Sabah and Sarawak. This must be a priority in Malaysia’s international engagement.

“The Prime Minister must apologise to the indigenous people of Sabah and Sarawak for 61 years of neglect and discrimination against the indigenous people and their ancestors,” they said.

Among other things, the NGOs are calling for the preservation of culture. This includes the preservation and promotion of indigenous cultures, languages ​​and traditions. These must be protected from the pressure of globalization and external economic interests, as is ensured in Batu Sumpah Keningau.

This includes commitment to environmental sustainability and nature conservation, particularly with regard to fragile ecosystems and biodiversity in indigenous territories, waters and food systems.

“The Prime Minister must also ensure that no international agreements and alliances jeopardise the existing legal protections and human rights frameworks that protect the rights of indigenous peoples in Malaysia, particularly in those areas of Borneo where indigenous peoples form nations within nations.

“MOPOT and GOASS stress that Malaysia’s possible accession to the BRICS countries must not undermine the rights and hopes of the indigenous peoples in Sabah and Sarawak for self-determination and liberation.

“We call on the Prime Minister and his Federal Government to give top priority to the sovereignty and self-determination of indigenous peoples and meaningful consultation in all decisions affecting our future,” the statement said. — DayakDaily

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