10 months ago
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NEW DELHI: The Malaysian government has justified its recent actions to remove hundreds of
Bajau Laut
, a stateless sea-faring community, from their homes off the coast of Sabah state. The authorities claim that the evictions were necessary to enhance security and tackle
cross-border crime
in the region.
According to local activists, more than 500 Bajau Laut individuals, who reside on dilapidated houseboats or coastal huts built on stilts, had their homes demolished or set ablaze by enforcement officials this week.
The operation, which took place in Sabah's Semporna district, faced criticism from
rights groups
, who urged the government to stop the evictions and ensure the safety and protection of the Bajau Laut community.
Christina Liew, Sabah's minister of tourism, culture, and environment, stated that the authorities were authorized to take action against
illegal activities
, such as fishing, building structures, and farming without permission, in protected areas under the jurisdiction of Sabah Parks, a state conservation agency. "The sovereignty of the country's laws in this issue must be upheld," she said in a statement on Friday.
Liew mentioned that evacuation notices were issued to 273 unauthorized settlements last month, and 138 structures were demolished between Tuesday and Thursday in "hot spots" around the Tun Sakaran Marine Park, a popular tourist destination known for its diving spots. She also alleged, citing police sources, that some homeowners had intentionally burned their own houses to gain sympathy and go viral on social media.
The Bajau Laut have been documented living in the area for centuries, but many lack nationality documents and are considered migrants by the authorities. Pusat Komas, a rights group, called on the state to provide alternative housing and address documentation issues to ensure that the Bajau Laut receive fair treatment and access to essential services. "Their forced removal raises serious questions about the equitable treatment of
ethnic minorities
in
Malaysia
," the group said.
(With inputs from agencies)
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