SIBU: It is high time for Sarawak to revive the Sarawak Rangers so that they can fortify the state’s borders, said Tamin assemblyman Christopher Gira.
“As we are aware, the capital of Indonesia will be relocated to the centre of Kalimantan in Borneo. We are expecting Sarawak to benefit from this move.
“However, we need to strengthen security along our borders to make sure our country’s sovereignty is protected,” he told New Sarawak Tribune on Monday.
Sibu Rural District Council (SRDC) chairman Cr Sempurai Petrus Ngelai said, “Looking at our vast borders, the need to revive the disbanded Sarawak Rangers and Border Scouts becomes clearer.
“Yes, currently we have the Army Border Regiment but its members are stationed at our official border checkpoints or CIQ border entrances.
“As such, it is high time for the government to revive the Sarawak Rangers and Border Scouts to guard and protect our borders.”
He wondered why previous state leaders did not protest the disbandment of the two security forces but said, ” It is rather too late to look back on history.
“We need to look forward and correct incorrect decisions in the past.”
SUPP Bawang Assan branch chairman and SRDC deputy chairman Cr Robert Lau believes some state leaders did resist.
“But we’re not able to do much with the superior power of Malaya politics.
“Looking at the situation of Sabah, the Malaysian security forces have failed the people of Sabah even though Sabahans contributed to the nation by paying taxes,” he said.
Lau agreed Sarawak should have control of its own borders and use its own sons and daughters to defend itself.
