The declaration was made at the Premier Momogun Convention, organised by the Momogun National Congress (MNC) at the Sabah Cultural Centre yesterday, the Borneo Post reported.

Entrepreneur and cooperatives development minister Ewon Benedick, who closed the event, praised the declaration and called it a “very positive” step.

“I said that, as the majority community in Sabah, it is not appropriate for this community to be classified under the term ‘lain-lain (others)’ in official forms,” he was quoted as saying.

“I support this declaration and have the responsibility to bring this matter to the federal government.”

Ewon also said the term “Momogun” was significant, as were the community’s essence, attitude, and values.

“Momogun should also strengthen similarities and create success stories or achievements that can be an inspiration or motivation, especially for future generations,” he said.

On July 24, MNC president Wences Angan said 109 representatives from 52 ethnic organisations and associations, NGOs, and cooperatives had voiced support for the initiative after being categorised as others in their own country “for the longest time”.

He also said that the communities need not fear losing the names of their respective ethnic groups should the proposal be accepted by the government.

The signed declaration will be submitted to the state and federal governments for consideration.