Dayak NGOs laud CM’s stand on ‘no to Rohingyas’

MIRI: Five Dayak non- government organisations ( NGO) here have issued a joint statement to support Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg’s stand on issues regarding Rohingyas.

The joint statement was made by Sarawak Dayak Graduates Association ( SDGA), Dayak National Congress ( DNC), Pemansang Dayak ( PD), Persatuan Dayak Sarawak ( Pedas) and Pertubukan Kebajikan Anak Dayak Sarawak (fomerly known as Dayak 360).

“We, Dayak NGOs of Sarawak, commend and laud the stand of the chief minister on his stand regarding the Rohingya issues.

“We also commend and laud the stand by Dato Sri Michael Manyin,” said the statement.

On Wednesday, Abang Johari put to rest speculations that the state government would provide temporary sojourn for Rohingya refugees, saying that there was no such thing.

Manyin, meanwhile, was reported as saying there must not be any attempt to bring over Rohingya refugees to Sarawak as such move would not be good for the state.

“We condenm in the strongest term people who make and disseminate fake news which create tensions within the country,” added the statement about fake news claiming that Rohingya refugees would be sent to Sarawak.

The statement also called for those who make and disseminate fake news to be investigated and brought to justice if they are found to have breached laws of the nation.

“We categorically state that our national security is paramount when dealing with international issues. This does not mean we are not concerned with humanitarian issues affecting people outside the country.

“By all means, give whatever assistance to anyone who need help but do not risk our own national welfare and security. We are fully aware of the issues at hand.

“We do not take sides blindly; and instead we approach them objectively,” added the statement.

The NGOs also urged politicians to avoid making statements just to be in the limelight.

“They should spend more time developing their constituencies and looking after the welfare of their people instead of pandering for popularity,” concluded the statement.