Malaysian state officials defend demolitions that left hundreds of 'sea gypsies' homeless in Borneo

Social advocacy group Borneo Komrad said on its Facebook page that the Bajau Laut people, a semi-nomadic community that is mostly stateless, have been left homeless after authorities destroyed and burned their homes and boats.

Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Christina Liew said Friday that the operation was carried out according to the law. She said evacuation notices were sent a month ago to 273 “unauthorized settlements” on islands in the Tun Sakaran Marine Park, renowned for its clear waters and diving spots.

In a three-day operation from Tuesday, she said authorities demolished 138 illegal structures. She said police had told her that some people set fire to their own homes to gain sympathy and attention on social media.

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Malaysia destroys dozens of sea nomads' homesKUALA LUMPUR — Malaysian security forces have destroyed nearly 140 houses belonging to an indigenous sea-dwelling community off Borneo island's Sabah state in a major anti-crime crackdown, a local government ministry said on Friday.
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