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KUCHING, Malaysia – A heated exchange has erupted in Sarawak politics following accusations leveled against PKR deputy president Nurul Izzah Anwar. A local assemblyman has publicly accused her of attempting to leverage Sarawak’s longstanding issues regarding native customary land (NCR land) for personal political gain. This comes after Nurul Izzah recently called for urgent action and a renewed focus on resolving the complex and often contentious issues surrounding NCR land rights.

The assemblyman, speaking anonymously to protect his political standing, stated that Nurul Izzah’s pronouncements were a calculated move to garner support and visibility, particularly among native communities in Sarawak. He questioned the sincerity of her concern, suggesting it was a strategic maneuver rather than a genuine desire to assist the people.

“It is deeply disappointing to see a national leader attempting to exploit a sensitive and deeply rooted issue like NCR land for political mileage,” the assemblyman reportedly said. “These are complex matters that require careful consideration, consultation with local communities, and a thorough understanding of the legal and historical context. Simply issuing calls for action without a concrete plan or genuine engagement is irresponsible and frankly, opportunistic.”

The NCR land issue has been a persistent challenge in Sarawak for decades. Native communities traditionally relied on these lands for their livelihoods, but their rights have often been challenged by logging companies, plantation developers, and conflicting land titles. Numerous court cases and government inquiries have attempted to clarify and protect these rights, but a definitive resolution remains elusive.

Nurul Izzah's call for action stemmed from a recent visit to several longhouses in Sarawak, where she heard firsthand accounts of the struggles faced by communities battling to reclaim their ancestral lands. She emphasized the need for a more proactive approach from the government, including stronger legal protections and greater transparency in land dealings.

However, the assemblyman’s accusations have ignited a firestorm of debate, with supporters of Nurul Izzah defending her commitment to indigenous rights and accusing the critic of attempting to deflect attention from the government’s own shortcomings in addressing the NCR land crisis. They argue that her voice is vital in raising awareness and pushing for meaningful change.

This controversy highlights the ongoing tension between national politics and local concerns in Sarawak. It also underscores the complexities of the NCR land issue, which continues to be a source of conflict and hardship for many native communities. The debate is likely to intensify as the next general election approaches, with both sides vying for the support of Sarawak’s electorate.

The situation demands a nuanced and sensitive approach. Politicians from all parties should prioritize genuine engagement with local communities, a commitment to upholding indigenous rights, and a willingness to work collaboratively to find lasting solutions to the NCR land crisis. Exploiting this issue for political gain will only serve to further marginalize those who have already suffered for too long.