KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 22 — Federal minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob applauded today the police investigation on PKR lawmaker Nurul Izzah Anwar who was recently photographed with the daughter of the self-styled Sulu sultan who masterminded the 2013 attack on Sabah.
The rural and regional development minister said the Lembah Pantai’s meeting with Jacel Kiram was a form of treason; the Filipina is a senatorial candidate who is reportedly still pursuing her father’s wish to claim Sabah for the clan.
“To me meeting with a member who had declared war on Malaysia is an act of treason under the Prevention of Terrorism Act and the Penal Code for declaring war against the Yang Di-Pertuan Agong,” Ismail Sabri was quoted by national news wire Bernama as telling reporters after an event in Bera, Pahang.
He added that Nurul Izzah had shown her insensitivity towards the feelings of Sabahans in the aftermath of the Sulu intrusion of Kampung Tanduo in the district of Lahad Datu, as well as towards the police who had fought in battle, with some killed in action.
He noted Nurul Izzah had apologised and voiced regret over the photographs of the duo after they circulated online, but said the apology was insufficient and may set a precedent for others.
“Nurul Izzah should have realised from the start, it’s an offence and we cannot accept her apology so easily as it may give a bad signal to others and they may commit a similar mistake,” he was quoted saying further.
Nurul Izzah has since confirmed that she was in the Philippines on November 9 with fellow federal lawmaker Chua Tian Chang as part of a PKR delegation to meet with “various stakeholders” there, and explained that the guests were decided by the organisers and she had no knowledge she would be meeting Jacel.
Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Khalid Abu Bakar told reporters earlier today the police intend to interview Nurul Izzah and find out her reason for the meeting with Jacel.
