RANAU: August 10, 2026 – Deputy Chief Minister I, Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Joachim Gunsalam, has called on community leaders and Native Chiefs to be more proactive in helping residents who do not possess valid identification documents.
According to him, these leaders are closest to the community and understand the background of local families.
“If you truly know the residents concerned, help them in their affairs to obtain valid documents. However, if you do not know them, state so honestly, and never confirm matters that we ourselves are not certain of,” he said during the Ranau District Mobile Court Programme at SK Tibabar on Friday.
Dr Joachim stressed that Native Chiefs need to channel accurate information to the authorities, especially in cases that require verification of background.
Among the causes of documentation issues are late birth registration, intermarriages, absence of marriage certificates, and delays in obtaining identity cards.
“Do not let this problem drag on until it is inherited by the children and future generations,” he said.
The lack of valid documents can affect opportunities for education, employment, and access to government assistance.
The Mobile Court Programme was held to facilitate documentation matters in the interior areas.
Source: JAPEN
