Who Is a Native of Sabah? A Legal Analysis

Open Access

Abstract

Article 161A of the Federal Constitution provides for the special position of natives of Sabah and Sarawak. Who are the natives of Sabah? There are legal definitions provided in the Federal Constitution, the State Constitution of Sabah and the Sabah Interpretation (Definition of Native) Ordinance 1952. However, each provision provides vague and unclear definitions for the term "native". This vague and inconsistent definition leads to so many problems faced by the natives of Sabah, both in economic and political aspects. Thus, this paper aims to analyse the relevant legal provisions concerning the definition of a native of Sabah and highlight possible solutions to the problems.