Activists speak out against BRICS membership, see it as a threat to indigenous peoples
In a joint statement, the Defender of Ancestral Lands Sabah (MOPOT) and the Sabah and Sarawak Indigenous People's Alliance (GOASS) call on the government to respect the "informed consent" of local communities. Joining the intergovernmental group raises questions about sovereignty and self-determination in Sabah and Sarawak. Peter John Jaban told AsiaNews that consultations are essential on “decisions that have an impact on our future”.
Kuching (AsiaNews) – In Borneo environmental organisations and indigenous groups have come out against the government’s decision to join BRICS, an intergovernmental organisation comprising emerging economies (Brazil, Russia, China, India, South Africa) led by Beijing.
In a joint statement, the Defender of Ancestral Lands Sabah (MOPOT) and the Sabah and Sarawak Indigenous People's Alliance (GOASS) call for respect for the Free Prior Informed Consent (FPIC) of indigenous peoples in the country.
Their criticism is aimed at the cabinet and Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, whose decision raises critical issues related to “indigenous sovereignty and self-determination in the two Borneo states which are home to diverse indigenous communities.”
Andrew Ambrose, representing MOPOT, and Peter John Jaban, on behalf of GOASS, raise several critical points, calling on the prime minister to uphold the sovereignty of Indigenous peoples in Sabah and Sarawak.
In their view, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim must ensure indigenous people’s right to self-governance and control over their lands, territory, and resources; he must also respect the right of indigenous communities to self-determination and freedom to determine their political status and pursue their economic, social, and cultural development without external interference.
To this end, it is essential to subscribe to the principles defined by Free Prior Informed Consent (FPIC) in all decisions related to international alliances like BRICS, ensuring meaningful consultation with indigenous communities and traditional customary and spiritual leaders before the Malaysian government makes any decision.
“Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim must address historical injustices, including discriminatory practices, inadequate resource sharing, and political marginalisation faced by Indigenous peoples in Sabah and Sarawak, which must be a priority in Malaysia's international engagements,” the statement said.
These must be the priorities in the country’s international engagements.
What is more, “The prime minister must apologise to Sabah and Sarawak natives for 61 years of neglect and discrimination”.
The advocacy groups urge Prime Minister Anwar, as head of government, to preserve and promote Indigenous cultures, languages, and traditions and safeguard these against the pressures of globalisation and external economic interests.
The statement also urges the prime minister to commit to environmental sustainability and conservation, particularly the fragile ecosystems and biodiversity within indigenous territories, waters, and food systems.
Thus, any international agreement or alliance must not compromise existing legal protections and human rights that represent the first step towards safeguarding the indigenous peoples of Malaysia, particularly in their territories in Borneo.
“MOPOT and GOASS emphasise that Malaysia's potential entry into BRICS must not undermine any rights and aspirations of Indigenous peoples in Sabah and Sarawak self-determination and liberation,” said activist Peter John Jaban speaking to AsiaNews.
“We call upon Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and his federal government to prioritise Indigenous sovereignty, self-determination, and meaningful consultation in all decisions that impact our future,” he added.
.png)
22/03/2024 16:27
25/03/2022 18:08
11/07/2023 19:33
