Manila: A stand-off has occurred between
Philippine government officials and followers of Sultan of Sulu who
raided Sabah last week to pursue a Filipino-Muslim family’s claims over
the territory which dates back to the 17th century.
“We are endeavouring to have
the group [of Sultan Jamalul Kiram] leave Lahad Datu [in Sabah]
peacefully and this remains to be a work in progress in coordination
with the Malaysian government. We want this issue to be settled in a
peaceful manner,” said Raul Hernandez, assistant secretary and spokesman
of Manila’s foreign affairs department.
“What is important for now is
for them to leave that area because this could affect existing issues
we have including peace talks [between the Philippine government and the
Moro Islamic Liberation front or MILF which is brokered by Malaysia]
and possible bilateral relations [between the Philippines and Malaysia,
which are both members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations or
Asean],” said Hernandez.
Earlier, Kiram confirmed that
he approved the sending of 400 (not 300) Filipino-Muslims, including 20
armed men, to Lahad Datu district last week, to enforce his family’s
ancestral ownership over the area.
