KUALA LUMPUR: Police have begun investigations into the so-called heirs of the Sulu Sultanate, the arbitrator they appointed, their lawyers and "related parties" under Section 124K of the Penal Code for sabotage, in relation to the claims they made against Sabah and Malaysia.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, however, assured that any action would be based on the rule of law and would not oppress any party.
"The Malaysian government will not compromise on aspects of sovereignty and national security, with a focus on protecting national assets from external threats.
Anwar stressed that the government would not hesitate to take action.
"This includes (against) Malaysian citizens who turn their backs on the interests and security of the country by providing any direct or indirect support or assistance, or collude with the party making the claims," he said during a special briefing on the Sulu claimants case in the Dewan Rakyat.
Anwar said Malaysia will continue to ensure that the factual narrative is being disseminated to everyone regarding the issue, including the international community through the government's official website and certain platforms.
"We are committed to acting proactively to end the issue of these claims, in addition to ensuring that the interests of Malaysia and the country's sovereignty are always preserved."
On the latest development related to the claims, Anwar said the government was awaiting another important decision in relation to the Sulu claimant case.
"The decision, to be delivered by the Dutch Court of Appeal regarding the applicant's claim to recognise and enforce the 'final award' in the Netherlands, is expected to be delivered on June 27," he said.
Anwar said Malaysia will continue its efforts in defending the country's sovereign rights, in relation to the issue, in all relevant jurisdictions including in the Netherlands, France, Luxembourg and any other jurisdictions where the final award is recognised and enforced.
Anwar added that Malaysia had on June 6, secured a landmark victory at the French court in a case brought by the self-proclaimed heirs of the long-defunct Sultan of Sulu, regarding territorial claims related to Sabah.
"This is a landmark decision for Malaysia and proves the seriousness and determination of the Malaysian government in dealing with the issue."
Anwar added although the decision was in favour of Malaysia, the government has received information that the parties making the claim will continue their effort to enforce the final award in other countries.