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Two student rallies in KK highlight diverging views on governance and corruption
UMS students making their way to Lintasan Deasoka during the Gempur Rasuah Sabah 2.0.
KOTA KINABALU (June 21): Two peaceful rallies were held simultaneously in the state capital on Saturday, each delivering contrasting messages on governance and student concerns.
The first rally, involving nearly 200 Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) students from the Suara Mahasiswa group, was held under the banner of Gempur Rasuah Sabah 2.0, an anti-corruption movement. The second rally, staged by around 50 individuals from Mahasiswa Dan Anak Muda Sabah, voiced support for the State Government and Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
Noridi (front) and members of Mahasiswa Dan Anak Muda Sabah showing their support for the State Government.
The UMS student group began their rally in front of Suria Sabah Shopping Mall before marching through Wisma Sabah, Wisma Merdeka, Segama Complex and Sinsuran Complex. Their demonstration concluded for the day at Lintasan Deasoka, where they planned to camp overnight before ending the protest at noon on Sunday, June 22.
According to Suara Mahasiswa president Muhamad Fadhil Muhamad Kasim, the rally was not aimed at attacking the government, but rather to denounce corruption and unjust governance.
Their key demands include:
Legal action against the State Water Department over ongoing water supply issues at UMS, a full reform of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) commissioner appointment process, harsher penalties for individuals found guilty of bribery and public dissatisfaction with the appointment of Tun Musa Aman as the Sabah Head of State, citing his controversial past About 350 meters away at Taman Chong Thien Vun, near the old Kota Kinabalu Court House, the second peaceful gathering unfolded. Led by Noridi @ Noraidi Maya, the group expressed support for Chief Minister Hajiji and the State Government.
Noridi clarified that their event was not a counter-rally but a separate show of solidarity. He highlighted various forms of government assistance received by students, such as the Sentosa, BUDI and SUBSIDI programs.
Addressing the ongoing mining corruption scandal, Noridi said it was best to let authorities conduct their investigations and advised fellow students not to speculate on matters beyond their understanding.
He also noted that infrastructure issues, including water and electricity, have been longstanding problems currently being addressed.
On the appointment of Tun Musa as Head of State, Noridi said the matter is settled and should be respected.
