Sarawak CM: Total commitment to stem illegals influx and protect sovereignty

KUCHING - Sarawak Head of State Tun Abdul Taib Mahmud wants more committed action from the government to stem the possible influx of illegal immigrants into the state.

He said the state's rapid pace of development and its rich natural resources were attractions for them to seek jobs, do business and live here.

"Their presence must be treated with total commitment as they can threaten the country's sovereignty and cause fears and worries among the people.

"Such fears and worries are well-founded as illegal immigrants are often associated with crimes and social problems," he said when declaring opened the fifth session of the 17th State Legislative Assembly sitting here Tuesday.

Taib said public security and peace must be given top priority so as not to negate efforts to make Sarawak a progressive and prosperous state.

Hence he suggested that the monitoring and usage of manpower be properly done to strengthen all enforcement efforts.

"The enforcement agencies should undertake integrated and fully committed operations to effectively deal with this problem," he said.

-- BERNAMA