Kelvin Hii
MIRI (June 19): Sarawak’s immigration autonomy has played a crucial role in shielding the state from challenges linked to the growing Rohingya refugee population in Malaysia, said Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) Youth Central vice-chairman Kelvin Hii.
He said the Sarawak government’s long-standing decision to reject the settlement of Rohingya refugees in the state, reaffirmed recently by State Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, highlighted the importance of preserving Sarawak’s constitutional rights and autonomy.
Hii said public concern over the Rohingya issue has intensified nationwide, with many questioning the long-term implications of accepting more refugees into the country.
He cited United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) statistics showing that more than 126,000 Rohingya refugees are currently registered in Malaysia, excluding those who remain undocumented.
“The increasing refugee population has placed pressure on public infrastructure, social services and national resources.
“This is an issue that must be addressed seriously to safeguard the interests of Malaysians,” he said in a statement.
Hii said Sarawak’s ability to regulate the entry of non-residents through the Sarawak Immigration Ordinance 1958 has enabled the state to maintain greater control over immigration matters and protect local interests.
He described the ordinance as one of Sarawak’s key safeguards, allowing the state to monitor entry and make decisions based on the needs and welfare of its people.
Hii also recalled concerns raised by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg in 2018 over alleged attempts to abolish Sarawak’s immigration autonomy.
According to him, had such efforts succeeded, Sarawak might today face challenges similar to those experienced elsewhere in Malaysia in managing the growing refugee population.
“This shows why Sarawak’s special rights and autonomy must continue to be protected.
“Decisions affecting Sarawak should always prioritise the interests of Sarawakians,” he said.
While defending the state’s firm stand on the Rohingya issue, Hii stressed that Sarawak remains committed to humanitarian principles and has continued to provide assistance within its means and capabilities.
He cited the state’s contributions during the Covid-19 pandemic, medical assistance programmes, green energy cooperation initiatives and employment opportunities for foreign workers from neighbouring countries as examples of Sarawak’s humanitarian approach.
However, he emphasised that such assistance must be carefully planned and implemented within the state’s capacity to ensure Sarawakians’ welfare and development needs remain the priority.
Hii called on Sarawakians to remain united in protecting the state’s rights, particularly its immigration autonomy, and to reject any proposals that could undermine Sarawak’s authority over matters affecting its future.
He said preserving political stability and safeguarding Sarawak’s autonomy are essential to ensuring the state’s continued growth, prosperity and long-term development.
