PETALING JAYA: Two leaders from Parti Gagasan Rakyat Sabah (PGRS) have criticized Warisan president Shafie Apdal for comparing Malaysia’s humanitarian aid to Gaza with the long-standing issue of undocumented migrants in Sabah.
Masiung Banah, the PGRS vice-president, and Victor Paul Paut, the party’s Tambunan division chief, described Shafie’s comments as shallow and misleading. They argue that equating these two distinct issues is not only inaccurate but also risks confusing the public.
Masiung pointed out that as a former chief minister, Shafie should be aware of the difference between a humanitarian issue and one related to state security and sovereignty. He emphasized that Malaysia’s aid to Gaza was driven by humanitarian values and international solidarity, rather than political or citizenship concerns.
“Sabah’s issue involves security, sovereignty, and the well-being of local residents affected by the influx of undocumented foreigners,” he said. “Equating these two completely different matters only confuses the public and reflects the muddled thinking of a leader who should understand national policy.”
Recently, a viral video surfaced showing Shafie at a Warisan event stating that the government should assist undocumented migrants in Sabah, just as it had provided RM100 million in aid to Gaza. He argued that individuals without MyKads or passports should also receive support because they contribute to the local economy through activities such as fishing and farming to supply food for Sabahans.
Masiung, who is the Kuamat assemblyman, questioned Shafie’s motives, suggesting that his remarks could be a political strategy to gain popularity by exploiting a sensitive state issue.
Victor added that the issue of undocumented migrants in Sabah is not about sympathy or humanitarian concern, but about rights, security, and the state’s future. He highlighted that the people have endured the consequences of not addressing this issue firmly, even during Shafie’s time as chief minister.
“I urge all parties, especially political leaders like Shafie, to stop manipulating the issue for personal gain,” he said. “Sabah’s sovereignty must never be used as political fodder.”
“A true Sabahan leader would defend this state firmly, not equate immigration offenders with victims of war.”
