Government Backs Native Laws Committee to Safeguard Heritage and Rights

16 September 2025

KENINGAU: The 2025 Sabah Native Chiefs Conference today underscored the importance of strengthening the institution of native customs through the establishment of a Legal Advisory Committee led by Native lawyers, while also advocating for special funding to preserve the role of customary law as a pillar of unity and community development.

Deputy Chief Minister II, Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam, said the initiative proves that native customs are not merely a matter of history, but a source of strength in building unity and advancing Sabah’s progress.

“This conference serves as an excellent platform to discuss issues concerning the interests of the Native people, including the proposal to establish a Legal Advisory Committee, the push for funding to reinforce the institution of customary law, and the reaffirmation of justice relating to the Keningau Oath Stone,” he said when officiating at the conference at Dewan Salingkawang, Sabah Handicraft Centre, yesterday.

Dr Joachim said the Keningau Oath Stone, inscribed in 1963, remains a symbol of the promise to uphold the rights of the people of Sabah guaranteed during the formation of Malaysia, and continues to serve as the foundation of the native institution’s struggle to this day.

“This effort is crucial in elevating the role of the native institution as guardian of heritage and culture, while also acting as a strategic partner to the government in ensuring the state’s development progresses in tandem with the preservation of our identity and history,” he explained.

He further stressed that the organisation of the conference coincides with Malaysia Day on 16 September, commemorating Sabah’s entry into the Federation of Malaysia.

He expressed hope that the resolutions achieved at the conference would benefit both the community and the state, further strengthening inter-ethnic relations for the well-being of the people of Sabah.

The conference, organised by the Sabah Native Affairs Council (MHEANS), brought together District Chiefs from across the state.

Also present were Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Local Government and Housing, Datuk Dr Jamili Nais; President of the Sabah Native Affairs Council and Bingkor State Constituency Community Development Officer, Tinus Majip.