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Statement by Dr Tan Seng Giaw, DAP National Vice-Chairman and MP for Kepong on the third day of the Philippine military assaults on the Abu Sayyaf hideouts. 18.9.2000

The southern Philippine rebels, Abu Sayyaf, have been kidnapping hostages. They took 21 and 3 people on 23.4.2000 and 10.9.2000 respectively from Malaysian soil, Sipadan and Pandanan Islands. From 16.9.2000, the Philippine military have been attacking the rebel positions, putting over 20 hostages at risk. Hithero, 20 of the 21 Sipadan hostages have been released. The three Pandanan hostages and 19 others are still in rebel hand.

Malaysian Armed Froces chief General Tan Sri Mohd Zahidi Zainuddin said that his counterpart had informed him that the military would ensure none of the hostages was injured in its rescue operation.

How can the Philippine military ensure the safety of the hostages? Who is to stop the rebels from desperate acts?

Philippines, Malaysia, France and America have 16, 3, 2 and 1 hostages respectively. Whatever the Philippine Government's assurance, Malaysia, France and America are concerned about the safety of the hostages.

President Joseph Estrada stresses that he must act now. Philippines is a sovereign state. However, the Malaysian Deputy Prime Minister Dato' Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi says he is worried about the hostages.

The historical, social, economic and religious backgrounds of southern Philippines and the waters of Sabah are complicated. For years, armed marauders attack and kidnap people such as in Semporna.

Despite statements from the Malaysian Government, our military and police have difficulties in dealing with rebels and pirates. They have plans. But, for some reasons, these are not successful. The Government asks for more money and camps. Is it just the fund and equipment? What about morale, training, tactics and strategy? Do we have a credible coastal patrol?

The Malaysian Defence Minister Dato' Seri Najib has pledged after the 23.4.2000 Sipadan hostage crisis that he has increased armed surveillance. Then, Abu Sayyaf took three Malaysians from Pandanan on 10.9.2000.

We hope that the Malaysian Government increase contacts with the Philippine Government. We pray that the rebels will not harm the hostages.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw