PRESS STATEMENT ON ROBIN PADILLA, FILIPINO SENATOR, DEMANDING SABAH
I strongly condemn the statement made by Robin Padilla, which once again revives the outdated claims over Sabah.
This statement is not only baseless but also undermines the credibility of a senator. In a world governed by facts and international law, repeating such an old narrative only highlights political immaturity and desperation.
For context, Robin Padilla is a former Filipino action movie actor who is now a senator. He was previously arrested before becoming a senator for possessing firearms illegally. His personal record also includes controversies, including mocking the younger generation and questioning women’s rights.
A senator should speak responsibly, not sell empty rhetoric for attention. Such statements raise serious questions about his understanding of history, sovereignty, and international law.
If he truly cares about his country, the Philippines, he should advise his President on how to repatriate Filipino citizens who enter Sabah illegally, rather than propose the seizure of a sovereign neighboring territory.
As emphasized recently by the President of the Warisan Party, Shafie Apdal, Sabah’s position within Malaysia is final and non-negotiable. The facts are clear: Sabah legally joined Malaysia in 1963 through the expressed will of its people, and this process is recognized internationally.
I want to stress firmly: Sabah is not a disputed territory. Sabah is not a bargaining chip. Sabah is part of Malaysia.
The people of Sabah will continue to defend the sovereignty of their land without compromise. Stop politicizing fantasies. The world moves by facts. I remind Robin Padilla to stop the movie-script theatrics he is accustomed to.
THAM YUN FOOK
ADUN N19 Likas
