KOTA KINABALU: The state government is continuing efforts to strengthen the Native Court (Mahkamah Anak Negeri) by ensuring it has clear and adequate jurisdiction, a solid institutional structure, and officers who are upright, credible and authoritative.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Haji Noor said this also includes the adoption of modern, orderly and effective procedures.
As such, he said the state government this year, through the Sabah Department of Native Affairs, has allocated RM84.40 million for operating expenditure and the implementation of various programmes to ensure the welfare and customs of the native communities continue to be preserved.
“Of the total allocation, RM69.98 million is for allowance payments and administrative expenses for State Native Chiefs.
“Meanwhile, RM2.70 million has been allocated to continue the construction of Native Courts in Tamparuli, Sook and Paitan,” he said when officiating the seminar titled ‘Empowering Native Justice – The Way Forward’ here on Saturday.
His speech was delivered by Deputy Chief Minister I, who is also Works Minister, Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Joachim Gunsalam.
The Chief Minister said laws governing native customs should be reviewed and strengthened in line with current conditions and needs.
He noted that some laws related to native affairs were enacted during the colonial era and should be reassessed and improved.
“These laws were born in a context and reality that were very different from our lives today. Today, Sabah has changed. Our society has changed.
“Economic values, social structures and life challenges have evolved rapidly. Therefore, the law must also change — not to deny customs and heritage, but to ensure that justice remains relevant and functional.
“Therefore, I hope this seminar will serve as a platform for bold, honest discussions centred on Sabah’s interests, in order to find fair and comprehensive solutions,” he said.
He stressed that efforts to strengthen native laws and the native justice system should not be seen as a step backwards.
“On the contrary, this is a step forward — a courageous move to ensure Sabah advances into the future without sacrificing its identity and heritage,” he said.
He added that the programme was meaningful and significant for the future of Sabah’s people, particularly the native communities.
“Sabah is a state rich in native customs, identity and culture that have been deeply rooted for generations.”
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