Protect native rights of mixed-race kids in Sarawak, says minister

 

Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar says the Federal Constitution only recognises 28 ethnic groups in Sarawak when there are actually over 70 native to the state.

PETALING JAYA: Law minister Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar has called for the Federal Constitution to be amended to ensure that the native rights of mixed-race Sarawakian children are preserved.

In particular, he called for amendments to Article 161A (6) and (7), which defines and establishes the special position of the natives of Sarawak.

He also said the amendments would give Sarawak the power to decide which races should be recognised as indigenous.

Currently, in Sarawak, one is only recognised as a native when both parents are from the native groups as specified under the Federal Constitution.

“Under Article 161A (6), a person is a native of Sarawak when both parents are of native origin, as listed under Article 161A (7).

“Also, the article only recognises 28 ethnic groups in Sarawak, whereas there are more than 70 such groups in the state,” Wan Junaidi said in a statement.

He warned that the issue could become a problem in Sarawak if it was not addressed properly.

“Sarawak is a melting pot and the people live harmoniously together – regardless of race and religion. That is why almost one-third of Sarawakians are of mixed parentage. Inter-racial marriages are a common thing in Sarawak.

“However, because of the provisions, many of the children from these mixed marriages are not recognised as natives and as such do not enjoy the rights and privileges as Sarawak natives.

“That is why we need to review and amend this law to ensure the younger generation of Sarawakians will not lose what is theirs,” he said, adding that he conveyed his views and proposals on the matter during his engagement session with senators in Parliament yesterday.

Wan Junaidi pointed out that the recently passed Bill to amend the Federal Constitution –  to restore the status of Sarawak and Sabah as equal partners in the federation – proposes the amendment to Article 161A (6) and (7).

“With this amendment, the power to decide which races in Sarawak shall be recognised as indigenous to the state shall be determined by the state through state laws,” he said. - FMT