Kota Kinabalu: The recent viral incident showing Terengganu Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar being stopped for inspection by a special unit upon arriving at the Kota Kinabalu International Airport (KKIA) is in line with the internal immigration power granted to the Borneo states under the Malaysia Agreement.
It is to prevent anyone who may pose a threat to public order and harmony entering the state, said Parti Solidariti Tanah Airku (Star) Tg Aru Division head Hiew Choon Yu.
According to Ahmad Samsuri’s own account, he was subjected to security checks by a specialist police unit on two occasions – on April 6 upon arrival and on April 7 during his departure.
He revealed that he had been classified as a “person under surveillance” since mid-2023.
“This clearly shows that enforcement agencies are fulfilling their duties in accordance with the law and within Sabah’s jurisdiction,” Hiew said.
Under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 and the Federal Constitution, Sabah holds special immigration rights. The State Government and security agencies have full authority to screen and vet non-Sabahans – particularly those involved in politics, religion, or extreme rhetoric.
“Sabah is a state where people of various ethnic backgrounds have long coexisted peacefully. Tolerance and mutual respect are our core values.
“We cannot allow individuals with controversial histories or those who incite racial or religious tension to enter Sabah unchecked and jeopardise our social stability.
“This is not about targeting any specific individual. It’s about safeguarding the collective wellbeing of Sabahans. We reject hate speech and will not tolerate external influences that may stir division,” he stressed.
Hiew also urged all politicians and public figures to be mindful of their words and actions before entering Sabah, and to respect the values and cultural sensitivities of its people.
“Peace in Sabah was hard-earned and must not be compromised. We are open to visitors from all over the world – but only those who come in good faith,” Hiew said.
