Kota Kinabalu: A Sabah elected representative has asked if the JKDM is only meant for states where Umno is present.
Kiulu Assemblyman Datuk Joniston Bangkuai said he is posing the question because there has been no announcement about the JKDM extended to Sarawak.
“This question ought to be answered as there is a general perception that it is intended more for political expediency favouring Umno riding on the Madani concept,” he said at Kaamatan celebration at Kg Tomis Baru, Wednesday.
He said perhaps Deputy Prime Minister II Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, who is in charge of Sabah and Sarawak Affairs, could look into the views of Sabahans, including several key Sabah leaders, who are not in favour with the setting up of JKDM in Sabah.
“Fortunately, we have two Deputy Prime Ministers, and one is from Sarawak, who is also in charge of Sabah and Sarawak Affairs.
“If JKDM is unnecessary in Sarawak, perhaps he (Fadillah) should also examine the same situation in Sabah, given the similar political conditions.
“But I have faith in him, he will listen to our views. As fellow East Malaysians, we rely on him to consider the feelings of Sabahans,” he said.
Sabah leaders continue to question Putrajaya’s move to establish JKDM, asserting that a similar body already exists.
Deputy Chief Minister I and Sabah Star President Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan announced on Tuesday that the State Government will formally submit its objection and also convey its stance on the JKDM to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim when he arrives in Sabah to officiate the closing of the Kaamatan Festival 2024 on May 31.
Meanwhile, Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Minister and Upko President Datuk Ewon Benedick recently disclosed that he had voiced his objection to the setting of JKDM during the Cabinet meeting.
