New Sabah Native Court Legislation to Empower the Native Court Institution

1 May 2025

TAMBUNAN: The Sabah Native Court Enactment 1992 will be replaced with a new version aimed at streamlining the structure of the Native Court and strengthening the institution, according to Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Haji Noor.

"This is part of our efforts to ensure that the Native Court remains effective and relevant," he stated.

Hajiji explained that the Sabah Native Affairs Council has prepared a draft of the new enactment, the Sabah Native Court Enactment 2025, which is currently under review by the Ministry of Local Government and Housing.

"This draft requires input from the Office of the State Attorney General, the State Public Service Department, and the Ministry of Finance before it can be submitted to the State Cabinet and subsequently tabled in the State Legislative Assembly," he added.

He was speaking at the launch of the 2025 Kaamatan Festival at the Pisompuruan Hall here today.

The Chief Minister also reaffirmed the State Government’s commitment to enhancing the Self-Sufficiency Level (SSL) of agricultural produce through the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry (MAFFI), in order to bolster food security in Sabah.

Currently, Sabah’s SSL stands at only 22.8 percent, and the state remains dependent on imported food, he noted.

To address this, the State Government decided last year to revive the Sabah Rice and Rice Board (LPBS), and is now developing approximately 22,146 hectares of abandoned padi fields across the districts of Tuaran, Kota Belud, Kota Marudu, Keningau, Papar, and Tambunan.

"This initiative will support MAFFI’s efforts to increase Sabah’s food SSL to at least 30 percent by 2026 and 60 percent by 2030," he stated.

Regarding the Rural Agricultural Economic Revolution Programme (REPLB), launched on Wednesday (30 April), the Chief Minister said it aligns with the spirit of the Kaamatan Festival and highlights the State Government’s concern for low-income groups, particularly those in rural areas who are poor or categorised as hard-core poor.

"This programme is a strategic move to boost agricultural output and stimulate economic growth among self-subsistent farmers."

"It aims not only to improve agricultural yields and food security in Sabah and Malaysia as a whole, but also to elevate the rural economy by empowering farmers, fishermen, and agropreneurs to be self-reliant, innovative, and capable of generating sustainable income."

"By harnessing modern technology, supply chain support systems, and opening new market opportunities, this programme paves the way for rural communities to become key contributors to Sabah’s economy," he added.

More importantly, Hajiji emphasised that the development of the rural economy also acts as a catalyst for unity and social stability.

"As incomes rise, job opportunities are created, and young people will return to their villages equipped with knowledge and hope. This will strengthen, unite, and prosper our communities. I sincerely hope this programme will benefit farming communities, especially in rural areas," he said.

The Chief Minister also highlighted that the Kaamatan Festival is a significant event for the people of Sabah, aiming not only to strengthen bonds and unity among the diverse ethnic and religious groups but also to express gratitude for a bountiful harvest.

"Beyond that, Kaamatan reflects harmony and goodwill among Sabah’s people, aligning with the aspirations of Malaysia Madani, which emphasises human values, mutual respect, and togetherness," he remarked.

He added that this year’s festival theme, “Kaamatan Untuk Semua” or “Kaamatan For All” “Kaamatan Montok Toinsanan” — carries a meaningful and inclusive message.

"It underscores that Kaamatan is not just a festival for one community but a shared celebration that embraces all citizens, regardless of race, religion, or background."

"Kaamatan is no longer merely a harvest festival; it has become a symbol of unity, a space for mutual understanding and respect, and a celebration of our cultural diversity."

"This theme also reflects the State Government’s commitment to uniting Sabah’s people from all walks of life in honouring our rich and diverse cultural heritage," he concluded.