KOTA KINABALU – Numerous political leaders in Sabah have praised the Hague Court of Appeal’s recent dismissal of a bid by a group claiming to be heirs of the defunct Sulu sultanate to enforce a US$15 billion (RM 62.59 billion) arbitration award against the Malaysian government.
Leaders, such as Parti Bersatu Rakyat Sabah president Datuk Arthur Kurup, Warisan president Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal, and Party Kesejahteraan Demokratik Masyarakat chief Datuk Peter Anthony, have expressed relief and commended the collective efforts, dedication, and energy by all parties involved.
“The recent decisions by the Hague Court of Appeals and the previous decision by the French Court of Appeals indirectly indicate that the claims made by the Sulu group as heirs of Sulu are baseless and malicious.
“Safeguarding the sovereignty of Sabah has not been an easy task, but through agreement, close cooperation, and relentless efforts from all parties, we have achieved a significant victory for the people of Sabah,” said Kurup in a statement, here.
Sabah opposition leader Shafie described the ruling as a historic achievement for Malaysia, and said that the federal government’s challenge against the enforcement of the partial award by the self-proclaimed heirs to the Sulu sultanate has given Sabahans hope that future attempts by the group will also be thwarted.
“We hope for a complete victory. This claim by the so-called heirs has burdened Sabahans for many years, and this latest development not only brings relief but also underscores the frivolous nature of their claim.
“This court achievement ensures that the claimants will no longer find support from any court or government in Europe or any other country,” he said.
Anthony echoed similar sentiments, stating that the decision of the Hague Court of Appeal will definitely put an end to the claims of the self-proclaimed heirs.
Earlier, the Hague Court of Appeals in the Netherlands rejected the Sulu group’s application to recognise and enforce the “Final Award” from the arbitration court.
The decision was revealed by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who is currently on a two-day official visit to Laos which began yesterday. Anwar characterised the ruling as a significant victory for the Malaysian government. – The Vibes, June 28, 2023
