AMANAH Sabah Asserts: Respect the TYT, Symbol of State Sovereignty

29 December 2024

KOTA KINABALU: The Parti Amanah Negara (AMANAH) in Sabah today condemned the publication of a caricature by Fahmi Reza, which is considered disrespectful towards the Yang di-Pertua Negeri (TYT) or Sabah Head of State. In a press statement issued by its Chairman, Lahirul Latigu, AMANAH Sabah emphasized that such actions are uncouth and could jeopardise the harmony and unity of the people of Sabah.

According to Lahirul, the TYT is not merely an individual but an important institution within the state's administrative structure. He represents the symbol of sovereignty, unity, and stability for Sabah, playing a significant role in upholding the integrity of the state's administrative system.

“The TYT Yang di-Pertua Negeri Sabah is the Head of State and holds a significant position within the constitutional monarchy of Malaysia. Although Sabah does not have a king like the states in Peninsular Malaysia, the TYT fulfills that role as a symbol of state sovereignty,” stated Lahirul.

He also highlighted that the TYT's position, appointed by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, makes him the highest representative of Sabah within the framework of the Malaysian Federation. Therefore, disrespect towards the TYT not only reflects a lack of respect for the state symbol but also challenges the relationship between Sabah and the federal system.

AMANAH Sabah acknowledges the importance of freedom of speech guaranteed by Article 10 of the Federal Constitution; however, Lahirul stressed that this freedom must be exercised with full responsibility.

“Any actions that insult state symbols, including the TYT, are contrary to the values of civility and decency held by Malaysians, especially the people of Sabah, who are known for their culture of mutual respect,” he explained.

He also warned that such insults could incite tension among the people of Sabah, who are rich in tradition and customs. “Any insult towards the TYT is akin to undermining the dignity and identity of Sabah itself,” he added.

In the statement, AMANAH Sabah called upon all parties, including artists and activists, to be more sensitive to the feelings of the people of Sabah. Criticism and satire, according to Lahirul, should be conducted in a civil and responsible manner to avoid tarnishing the dignity of the state.

The party also urged the authorities to investigate this incident and take appropriate action if any laws have been violated. At the same time, the people of Sabah are urged to continue preserving unity and not be swayed by provocative actions that could disrupt the state's harmony.

AMANAH Sabah concluded the statement by asserting that the TYT is a symbol of the dignity and sovereignty of Sabah. “As the people of Sabah, we are responsible for defending this institution from any forms of insult. Respecting the TYT is equivalent to respecting the state of Sabah,” said Lahirul.

Sabah is a unique state within the Malaysian Federation, and AMANAH Sabah emphasises that the state's dignity must be upheld by all parties. Lahirul called on all Sabahans to unite in defending the integrity of the state.

Pic captions

Lahirul Latigu