It cited the claim by NGO Borneo Komrad that the operation targeted those living on seven islands in the region, including Pulau Bohey Dulang, Pulau Maiga, Pulau Bodgaya, Pulau Sebangkat and Pulau Sibuan.
Pusat Komas asked where the mandate for the eviction originated, and said those responsible should be held accountable for the community’s forced displacement.
“The eviction of the Bajau Laut (community) without adequate consultation or solutions for alternative housing exemplifies a failure to balance development with social justice,” it said in a statement.
It pointed out that many members of the community lack proper identification documents, and are thus more vulnerable to the impact of eviction.
“The citizenship status of many Bajau Laut individuals complicates their ability to claim legal rights and protection.
“Addressing these documentation issues is crucial for ensuring they receive fair treatment and access to essential services,” it said.
Pusat Komas urged the local authorities to halt further evictions and engage in dialogue with the community to find humane and just solutions.
This morning, Malaysiakini reported Borneo Komrad founder Mukmin Nantang as saying men arrived at the Bajau Laut community’s homes on Tuesday, and demolished and burnt their homes to drive them out.
“They are considered undocumented migrants and squatters who build houses on water.
“In reality, they are indigenous to the area, but are not allowed to receive education and the right to own land,” he said.
Borneo Komrad also shared several video recordings of the alleged eviction on X, with one video showing several men pushing a dilapidated house until it collapsed.
Mukmin claimed the Bajau Laut are now left with nothing as their homes and boats were burnt, and they do not know where to go.
Reuters also reported Mukmin as saying the men were unidentified, but were believed to be part of an enforcement task force.
He said some communities had received prior notice of the operation from Sabah Parks, a conservation body managed by the state government.