Lawyer Karpal Singh wants the government to immediately halt the annual ‘cession payment’ of RM5,300 to the self-proclaimed heir of the Sulu sultanate.

He viewed the payment as a mistake, especially after Sabah gained its independence, adding that the so-called descendents of the sultanate had no locus standi in receiving such payment.

“Only the Philippine government made some move in making claims over territorial rights of Sabah to the International Court of Justice (ICJ), but after the official visit of its former president, Ferdinand Marcos, in the late 1960s and conduct of subsequent administrations up to now, they have already waived any such territorial right claims.

“This can clearly be seen from both governments which agreed to upgrade diplomatic contacts from consulate to ambassadorial status, (which proved that) the independence of Sabah was recognised by the Philippine government,” he said when met at the Court Complex in Kuala Lumpur today.

Karpal also said he agreed with the government’s firm stand that there should be no negotiation with the Filipino intruders, and the use of force to flush them out from Sabah.

“Security forces should not allow for any further security lapses by immediately removing all the extremist elements which might still exist in Sabah,” he added.

- Bernama

Related stories

Pro-BN groups throw eggs, sticks at PKR supporters

Cops: Sulu 'general' believed to be ex-MNLF commander

Local Suluks: Don't bring your war to us

Putrajaya defends terrorist tag for intruders

Sulu intruders mull 'disengagement'

Classes half-full as parents worry about intrusion

97 detained as Ops Daulat enters Day 7

Semporna Hospital rubbishes NST report of gunmen visit

Tian Chua goes after Papagomo for 'slander'

No enemy tunnels found by security forces, say cops

Sabah intrusion brings Malaysians together