Kota Kinabalu: It is baseless to blame Semporna MP Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal for the dirty environment in Semporna and ask him to resign as the people’s representative, said Parti Warisan Deputy President Datuk Jaujan Sambakong.
He was responding to Gerakan Kuasa Rakyat Malaysia (G57) Chairman Zulkarnain Mahdar who called on Shafie to step down following Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing’s warning that a red notice against travel to Semporna may be issued.
Tiong’s statement came following food poisoning cases at a resort in Semporna and filthy conditions.
“There is no need for Shafie to resign as a MP and (Senallang) Assemblyman because matters related to cleanliness, environmental protection and health for tourism purposes are under the regulatory control of the State Government led by GRS.
“This matter has also been acknowledged by the State Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Christina Liew.
“On Aug 21, she herself stated that aspects of hygiene, health and safety in Semporna are under the supervision of the Semporna District Council and the Semporna District Office.
“Tun Sakaran Marine Park and Sipadan Island Park are under the control of Sabah Parks.
“Christina also stated that a report was prepared by the Semporna District Council on Aug 18 which explained that the food poisoning incident raised by Tiong was an isolated case,” said Jaujan, in a statement, Wednesday.
Jaujan added that the reports also stated that the on average, visitors have given positive feedback which indicate that Semporna’s level of cleanliness has improved.
“Therefore, the press conference held by Zulkarnain to urge Shafie to resign was just a political gimmick aimed at popularising himself,” he said.
