KOTA KINABALU: Do not politicise the eviction of Bajau Laut folk from illegal settlements in Semporna, said Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
Last week, videos of the demolition of illegal homes built by the Bajau Laut community in waters under the purview of Sabah Parks went viral.
The clips sparked concern about the violation of the human rights of the Bajau Laut community.
Yesterday, the Centre for Human Rights Research and Advocacy (Centhra) called on the authorities to cease the destruction of the homes.
It urged the government to respect and protect the rights of Bajau Laut folk, as well as recognise their unique cultural heritage and way of life.
Hajiji said: "Action was taken based on security and sovereignty concerns. Do not make this a political issue.
"We are aware of how the government is handling this and how to help those affected.
"We are making plans to help them," he said, without elaborating on the plans.
Hajiji said this after witnessing the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the state's Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship Ministry and a Kibing Group subsidiary for a new solar glass manufacturing plant in Papar.
Last week, the state Tourism, Culture and Environment Ministry confirmed that the operation was lawful. It was launched following the outbreak of shooting incidents in Darvel Bay and cases of cross-border crime in the settlements.
