KOTA KINABALU: There is a rising trend of non-citizens signing statutory declarations (SD) as a supporting document for their application of identity documents, says Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan (pic).
"It has come to my attention that there has been a surge in statutory declarations (SDs) signed by non-citizens in Sabah, specifically aimed at supporting applications for identification documents," the Sabah Chief Minister I said in a statement on Friday (Nov 1).
He said these non-citizens are declaring their residence in Sabah and stating lawful conduct, presumably to facilitate their documentation processes.
Kitingan said this trend raises concern as verification by commissioners for oaths, for example, could lead to unintended legal consequences.
He said the frequency and manner these SDs are used need to be scrutinised.
"There is a risk these documents could be misused, potentially impacting Sabah's legal and electoral integrity
"As the Deputy Chief Minister 1 and president of STAR Sabah, I am issuing a firm reminder and a stern warning to all commissioners for oaths, magistrates and relevant authorities to exercise utmost caution when handling such declarations," said Kitingan.
He said the role of commissioners for oaths is to uphold the integrity of the legal system and they must ensure that no action, even if done inadvertently, supports the issuance of identification documents to non-citizens through irregular means.
He said every statutory declaration linked to identification or citizenship applications must undergo rigorous assessment and officials must remain vigilant to prevent any misuse of the process.
"As Sabahans, we must ensure that the actions of our legal representatives reflect our dedication to transparency and adherence to established laws," he said.
