Kota Kinabalu: The Federal Government can place Palestinian war refugees in states in Malaya if it plans to bring them to accept them but not in Sabah and Sarawak, said Parti Kerjasama Anak Negeri (Anak Negeri).
Its President Datuk Henrynus Amin said this is especially true for Sabah which is already burdened with more than a million Filipino refugees and other illegal immigrants.
In addition, he urged the Malaysian Government to take a closer look at the current policy adopted by Egypt, Jordan and other Gulf countries which to this day refuse to accept Palestinian refugees.
“Instead of thinking about taking in Palestinian refugees, the Prime Minister should redouble diplomatic initiatives to obtain a ceasefire in the Gaza war and increase the delivery of humanitarian aid,” he said in a statement Thursday.
“Anak Negeri regrets the lack of response or explanation by the Federal Government regarding the issue raised by non-governmental organisations and also by a Federal Minister from Sarawak.
“If there is indeed such a plan, Anak Negeri suggests they be sent to various states in Malaya such as Kedah, Kelantan and Terengganu,” said Henrynus.
Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) President Datuk Chin Su Phin said the Sabah Government must exercise caution to safeguard harmony and peace among Sabahans.
“Refrain from causing negative, divisive and hate sentiments by avoiding potential risks,” he said, adding that potentially taking in the Palestinian refugees may involve international politics and result in domestic and foreign political disputes.
Chin said the State Government has donated to the Palestinian cause, while Sabahans could also donate essential goods or money as well, which is more meaningful and safer.
