Sabah natives should learn about Indigenous Peoples' rights

13 August 2024

By AVV

PENAMPANG : Arguably, not all the Indegenious People of Sabah understand or know their rights according to the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples

Monih Epin, the organising chairman of the recent World's Indigenous Peoples Day celebration in Kota Belud recently, agreed.

Mentioning that the event was well received with about 1,000 attendees, he added the occasion stressed on the recognition and protection of the rights of Indigenous Peoples on a global scale that have been championed by various individuals, organisations, and movements over time.

One significant milestone in this regard is the establishment of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP), he said.

On some comments on random surveys previously carried out by Nabalu News, he said he agreed that the celebration should be held in other districts or in village levels.

"It is only right that the rights of the Indegenious People should be disseminated to the grassroots to ensure that they understand their position and contribution in the global level," he said.

He believed that possessing rights without being aware of them was not a favourable situation.

While celebrating Indigenous Peoples Day with the spirit of a Harvest Festival is a meaningful approach, it is important to recognise that the two serve different purposes.

"A Harvest Festival typically focuses on agricultural traditions, emphasising the cycle of planting and harvesting, which helps to instill awareness and perpetuate our traditional and cultural heritage."

On the other hand, Indigenous Peoples Day is more about honouring and celebrating the diverse cultures, rich histories, and significant contributions of Indigenous Peoples from various regions around the world, he said.

He agreed however that It serves as a platform to showcase the unique traditions, languages, art forms, and knowledge systems of Indigenous communities, highlighting their resilience, wisdom, and ongoing cultural vitality.

He reiterated that the celebration went well and expressed his optimism that next year there would be a similar celebration in the State.

Datuk Ewon Benedick the Kadamaian State Assemblyman who is also the Minister of Entrepreneur Development and Coporative launched the World Indegenious People's Day Celebration.

During the event, he said identity is based on core values, the culture of the indigenous people who continue to work hard, with integrity and respect, a culture that sparks success in various fields.

"This country belongs to us and we must make a significant contribution to the nation."

"The contribution starts from the values of our society, our cooperation, and our unity. Despite political differences, when it comes to building the future and defending our rights and demands, we must stand united," he said.