15 November 2023
On Today Show
> Peter John Japan, Veteran Activist cum Deputy President Global Human Rights Federation – Refugee Challenges in Sarawak and Sabah: A Call for Thoughtful Solutions
> Elia Bit, social activist from Lapok – From Roads to Logging: Untangling the Confusion in Baram's Development Narrative
> Nasir Nash, activist of Orang Asli from Kelantan – Urgent Appeal for Food Donations in Pos Basi Following Tiger Attack
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special randau
1. RFS received a call from residents of Long Biak in Data Kakus Belaga. The forestry department authorities seized trucks and equipment belonging to illegal loggers operating in their area. They are grateful that their complaints have finally been addressed.
2. Political party leaders (Government and Opposition) and NGOs in Sarawak unanimously reject the entry of Palestinian refugees into Sarawak. Only the indigenous wing of the UN led by the Sarawak Premier has not yet voiced an opinion.
3. Israeli Finance Minister Nezalel Smotrich stated, "An independent Gaza may not become a reality, and Palestinians living there should voluntarily relocate to another country."
4. The possibility of Malaysia-Singapore trade relations being affected due to statements linking the former Prime Minister of Singapore to the former leader of the Malayan Communist Party, Chin Peng
5. Hadi remains the Member of Parliament for Marang. The BN candidate failed to present arguments to nullify Hadi's victory. The Terengganu Election Court rejected the petition filed by Jasmira Othman, the BN candidate.
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Peter John Japan, Veteran Activist cum Deputy President Global Human Rights Federation
*Refugee Challenges in Sarawak and Sabah: A Call for Thoughtful Solutions*
Minister of Public Works - Alexander Nanta Linggi expressed his full support for Sarawak Association for People Aspiration's (SAPA) head of publicity and information Peter John Jaban not to accept Palestinian refugees to Sarawak. There is a tendency/possibility of Palestinian war refugees to Malaysia. Since PMX Anwar Ibrahim supports the struggle of Hamas - PJJ said. This matter is becoming more apparent with the statement of the Minister of Finance of Israel - as reported by Malaysiakini today. ” An independent Gaza is unlikely to become a reality, and the Palestinians living there should “voluntarily” move to other countries. According to Pjj, the people of Sarawak and Sabah strongly oppose the entry of Palestinian refugees, it is feared that it will disturb the harmony of the races in both states. The problems brought by Rohinya and Bangladesh refugees are already enough. In other words, Malaysia can help but not by bringing them back to Malaysia. We can help by providing food and medical and financial assistance. But at the same time let's not forget that the Orang Asli of Sarawak (Penan) also need similar help. SAPA's stance, does not mean we are racist but to avoid bigger problems in the future.
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Elia Bit, social activist from Lapok
*From Roads to Logging: Untangling the Confusion in Baram's Development Narrative*
Elia Bit commented on the viral statement by MP Baram regarding the 1.8 billion. Elia is very confused that representatives from Baram often claim that logging companies usually repair roads to the interior of Sarawak, such as in Baram. This implies that all roads and bridges to Ulu Baram are indeed the responsibility of logging companies that profit greatly from Baram. Elia emphasizes that if representatives are requesting a large allocation for Baram, why is the government still allowing logging in Baram?
In other words, YB Dennis Ngau once stated that having logging companies is beneficial for road maintenance... So why does MP Baram want to request a significant allocation to upgrade Baram's roads? This is very confusing. The planning of MP Baram is unclear as they consistently request funds from the central government, but unfortunately, where is that money being used? Meanwhile, the people in the interior of Baram still rely on rainwater and their own generators for their daily needs.
This is the problem when one government has been governing Sarawak for so long and change can only come through the political will of the people themselves.
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Nasir Nash, activist of Orang Asli from Kelantan
*Urgent Appeal for Food Donations in Pos Basi Following Tiger Attack*
In the wake of a recent tiger attack on a youth in Pos Basi, Gua Musang, the community is facing unprecedented fear that has drastically impacted their daily lives. The incident has instilled a sense of terror, preventing residents from venturing into their gardens or the forest to search for essential sustenance.
Regrettably, the repercussions of this tragic incident have extended beyond emotional trauma. The community is now grappling with a severe shortage of food, exacerbated by their reluctance to engage in activities that were once routine. The need for external assistance has become paramount.
Recent reports indicate that one tiger has been successfully captured, though there is no confirmation regarding its connection to the attack. As the investigation continues, the community finds itself in a precarious situation, with limited access to food supplies and a pressing need for support.
Amidst these challenges, Nasir's team has taken the initiative to provide some relief by delivering much-needed food to the affected community. Their efforts, though commendable, underscore the urgency of a broader response to address the growing crisis in Pos Basi.
In light of these circumstances, a heartfelt appeal is made to the broader community, organizations, and government agencies to contribute to the food donation drive for Pos Basi. The residents, already traumatized by the recent events, are now burdened with the additional worry of food scarcity.
This call for support is not just a plea for sustenance but a collective effort to rebuild the community's confidence and resilience. Immediate action is required to ensure that the affected families receive the assistance they urgently need.