In the heart of Southeast Asia, a passionate and determined group of Sabahans is making waves with a bold vision for their homeland. The Republic of Sabah North Borneo (RSNB), an NGO registered in Australia, is spearheading a movement for Sabah's independence from Malaysia. At the helm of this movement is Mosses Paul Anap, known as Mosses PA Ampang, a former Ministry of Health worker turned independence activist.
Origins and Formation
The RSNB traces its roots to a social media group, Sabah Sarawak Keluar Malaysia (SSKM), which later became the Sabah Sarawak Union (SSU) in the United Kingdom. Mosses, disillusioned with the SSU's direction, parted ways and formed the RSNB in 2020. Despite initial setbacks due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the movement was revitalized in August 2023 with a fresh committee based in Victoria, Australia.
Objectives and Goals
The RSNB's mission is threefold: to educate, raise awareness, and advocate politically for Sabah's independence. The organization's objectives are clear:
- Educational Outreach: Inform Sabahans about the true nature and invalidity of the Malaysia Agreement 1963, which they argue has been misrepresented.
- Awareness Campaigns: Promote the necessity of supporting Sabah's independence, aiming to establish the Republic of Sabah North Borneo by 2034.
- Political Advocacy: Act as a pressure group to influence Sabahan politicians to champion the cause of independence.
"Our goal is to establish the Republic of Sabah North Borneo, a nation governed by the people, for the people," says Mosses.
Vision and Mission
The RSNB envisions a future where Sabah is recognized as a free and independent nation, capable of managing its natural resources responsibly and administering its government with justice and integrity. Their mission is to expedite the process of raising awareness about Sabah's need for independence, emphasizing peaceful and democratic means.
Activities and Membership
Currently, RSNB's activities focus on educating Sabahans through social media and small group meetings in Australia. Despite being self-funded, the organization is actively seeking long-term funding to sustain their movement. The RSNB has members spread across Sabah and Australia, with a 12-member committee based in Australia.
"We have thousands of unemployed PhD holders, master's graduates, degree holders, and skilled young individuals who have been denied opportunities in our homeland," Mosses explains, highlighting the untapped potential within Sabah.
The Struggle Against Federal Control
The RSNB is not anti-Federal Government but firmly opposes what they see as the colonization of Sabah by Malaya, now Malaysia. Mosses points out that Malaysia was supposed to be a new country with equal status for Sabah, Sarawak, Singapore, and Malaya. However, declassified documents reveal that Malaysia was merely an expansion of Malaya's political boundaries.
"For the past 60 years, we have lagged in social and economic development and have faced political instability due to interference from the federal government," says Mosses. "As of 2024, we are still begging for basic infrastructure like roads, water, and electricity."
Future Plans and Demands
The RSNB's demand is total independence achieved peacefully and democratically. They plan to participate in the upcoming Sabah State Elections, aiming to dominate the Legislative Assembly with new leaders who will negotiate for peaceful separation. If necessary, a referendum will be held to formally gauge Sabahans' desire for independence.
"We believe in our people's capability to govern effectively and much better after achieving independence," Mosses asserts. "We have all the resources needed to stand on our own."
A Peaceful Movement for Change
The RSNB prides itself on being a peaceful, mature, and professional movement that respects democratic means. Operating from Australia allows them to deliver their message without restriction, while ensuring their safety from any intimidation by the Malaysian government.
"By operating from Australia, any intimidation, harassment, or threats from the Malaysian government will be immediately known to the world," Mosses explains. "We are strengthening our network of Sabahans around the world to raise funds to support independence campaign activities in our homeland."
The RSNB is on a mission to change the course of Sabah’s history, and their journey is a testament to the power of determination and belief in a better future. As they continue their struggle for independence, the world watches closely, waiting to see if this small but resolute group of Sabahans can turn their vision into reality.
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