KOTA KINABALU: Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Maximus Ongkili has described Prime Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Najib Tun Razak as a true blue national statesman and the only Prime Minister who is prepared to take the bull by the horns and resolve the decades-old illegal immigrant problem in Sabah.
Dr Ongkili, who is also Parti Bersatu Sabah deputy president, noted that this was despite former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohammad belittling the Royal Commission of Inquiry’s initiative to look into Sabah’s illegal immigrant issue.
“This shows that Najib has a mind of his own and has the interests of the people of Sabah at heart. This move is great for Malaysia especially for our national sovereignty and security,” he added.
He commended the terms of reference of the RCI as very comprehensive and met expectations.
“These include verifying the statistics of illegal immigrants and refugees in Sabah; examining the recipients of Malaysian identity cards/citizenship and those who became voters; reviewing procedures, regulations and standards for processing of applications and awarding of citizenships to foreigners; investigating the action and functions of implementing agencies in granting citizenship and formulating long-term solutions to the illegal immigrants problem in Sabah,” Dr Ongkili said.
On the composition of the RCI members, he said it was well-balanced and consisted of reputable and experienced professionals and statesmen. “We are confident that they will deliver resolutions that will solve the illegal immigrant problem in Sabah once for all. “PBS will give the RCI our fullest cooperation and support.
Its formation is a popular decision for the people of Sabah and Malaysia as a whole and is also a fulfillment of the recommendation of the Parliamentary Select Committee on Electoral Reform as the presence of the illegal immigrants in Sabah has been linked to the tainting of the electoral roll,” said Dr Ongkili, who was chairman of the committee.