Sabah’s Parti Kerjasama Anak Negeri (Anak Negeri) has raised concerns over the Keningau Native Court’s move to file a compensation claim against controversial graphic designer Fahmi Reza for his caricature of Sabah Head of State Tun Musa Aman.
Priskila Akwila Sinem, Deputy Chief Coordinator of Anak Negeri Kota Belud, described the caricature as a political statement against corruption rather than an insult to Sabah’s native community.
“Fahmi’s caricature represents the frustrations of Sabahans with the lack of action on corruption in high places. He has the right to make political statements through art,” she said in Kota Kinabalu, today.
On Friday, Activist Fahmi Reza challenged Bingkor district chief Daniel Palangi to sue him over a controversial caricature, asserting his right to use art to highlight corruption.
This comes after several Sabah Native leaders plan to impose sogit on Fahmi Reza over a controversial caricature of Tun Musa Aman.
They say in Keningau the image insulted Sabah’s dignity, especially among the Kadazandusun and Murut communities. Legal action under Sabah’s Native Court is underway.
Priskila, a lawyer and member of the Dusun Momogun community, argued that the Native Court is overstepping its jurisdiction under the Native Court Ordinance.
“The Native Court does not have the authority to preside over matters within the Civil or Syariah Court’s jurisdiction. This case clearly does not fall under native customs or laws,” she said.
She added that Fahmi’s caricature does not demean or violate the dignity of Sabah’s native community. If an individual feels aggrieved, Priskila suggested they pursue a case under civil law instead of invoking native laws.
Priskila, a Tempasuk community organiser and emerging leader, also highlighted the broader issue of corruption in Sabah, expressing concern over its impact on the economy and the state’s future.
“Corruption involving political leaders, officials, and unscrupulous businessmen leads to economic leaks and the mismanagement of public assets and natural resources,” she said.
Priskila reaffirmed Anak Negeri’s commitment to freedom of speech, calling on Sabahans to stand against corruption and protect their rights to express dissent. – January 18, 2025.
