KOTA KINABALU: Fallen heroes and their families should receive more support instead of being neglected, said Sabah MCA Women Chief Datuk Dr Pamela Yong.
She highlighted the case of Sitti Bandorah Mahalil, widow of the late Sarjan Mejar Abdul Azis Sarikon, who was one of six armed personnel killed during an ambush in Pulau Simunul Semporna, following the 2013 Tanduo intrusion in Lahad Datu.
"This widow of a hero who died protecting the country's sovereignty is facing eviction from her family home due to an ongoing demolition operation in Semporna," she said in a statement on Thursday (Dec 19).
"This issue needs immediate attention and intervention from the government. It touches the hearts of many, including Sabah Wanita MCA," Yong added.
She urged the federal and state governments to engage with local authorities and hold a roundtable session with the widow to find a solution and alleviate their burdens.
Yong also suggested authorities examine the socio-economic conditions of families left behind after such incidents.
"They have lost their husbands, fathers, and household leaders. It is unfair for them to have their house demolished without receiving follow-up assistance or alternative measures," Yong stated.
She proposed that to honour the sacrifices of SM Abd Azis and others who have died defending the nation, the government should provide suitable housing or other forms of assistance to ease their burdens.
"Do not only speak of gratitude for the sacrifices made by these heroes, but prove it with actions although they are no longer alive," she said.
Sitti’s family home in Pulau Bodgaya is at risk of being demolished as Sabah Parks authorities carry out operations to remove homes built on protected state lands.
However, she claims they were previously promised they would not be disturbed while waiting for the site to be designated as customary land, as the house has stood for over 50 years.
Sitti recently refurbished the house and built a bridge after her father's passing.
She alleged that police officials who arrived at their home on Tuesday (Dec 17) treated them harshly when she and her family insisted on staying and refused to allow demolition.
She claimed that even their mature fruit trees were being cut down.
She is determined to protect her family house, as it was her father’s last wish that she and her siblings take care of it because it is where they grew up.
