KUCHING: Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) Youth said there is no need for Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi to withdraw his statement on asking Sarawak not to accept any refugees, especially those from countries known for violence, anger, and hatred.
Its Youth chief Miro Simuh said GPS secretary-general Nanta’s earlier remarks in reference to several non-governmental organisations (NGO) cautioning the Sarawak government about the possibility of Palestinian refugees entering Sarawak, was merely to highlight Sarawak and Sabah’s autonomy over immigration which include its right of control over the entry of any foreigner into Sarawak.
“The Federal Constitution, Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) and Immigration Act give Sarawak and Sabah legal authority to admit or reject the entry of foreigners, including non-residents into their states.
“Thus, Sarawak has the right to refuse or reject entry of foreigners into the state even if the federal government allow such foreigners to enter Malaya,” he said in a statement in response to United Malays National Organisation (UMNO) Youth chief Dr Mohamad Akmal Saleh who had earlier urged Nanta to make an open apology and retract his statement.
Miro added that PBB fully backs and supports Nanta’s statement on Sarawak’s autonomous right to refuse entry of any foreigners who are considered a risk or threat to the existing peace, harmony and security of the State.
“So, there is no need for Nanta to withdraw his statement as Sarawak’s autonomy over immigration is a fact which even the courts have upheld and recognised,” he said.
