KOTA KINABALU, Aug 19 (Bernama) — A Malaysian human rights commissioner has suggested that the state government appoint Native Court judges based on their knowledge of the local customs and traditions.
Jannie Lasimbang, a member of the Malaysian Human Rights Commission (Suhakam), representing Sabah, said the move was important to uphold the native court system and safeguard the rights of indigenous people.
“I think it is better that the appointment of district chiefs and native chiefs no longer be made based on political consideration.
“This is ensure that the Native Court institution continues to be respected,” she said at a seminar on the legal system and the rights of indigenous people at the Suhakam office, here Friday.
Jannie said the Native Court needed recognition and support, particularly administrative support, such as the setting up of a judiciary department for indigenous people.
This also included the setting up of a District Court of Appeal and the Native Court of Appeal, she said, adding that the judiciary department should not be encumbered by bureaucratic red tapes.
“We want the Native Court enactment to also respect and take into consideration the customs and traditions of each ethnic group in Sabah,” she said.
The review of the Native Court enactment should be led by those who are well-versed in the state’s customary traditions and not limited to lawyers and representatives of the State Attorney-General’s Office, Sabah Native Affairs Office or representatives of the state Housing and Local Government Ministry, she said. … Go to article.
