'Sulu Sultanate heirs likely used by groups in western countries' - Azalina

KOTA TINGGI - The so-called Sulu Sultanate heirs may be used by western countries to demand that the Malaysian government pay for their ridiculous demands.

Law Minister Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said stated the Sulu heirs demanded payments of as much as US$16 billion, equivalent to RM73.46 billion, including the claim charge from Malaysia.

"I was informed two to three days ago that the Attorney-General Tan Sri Idrus Harun received the letter from the Sulu heir's lawyer, which rudely claimed they did not only have the rights over Sabah but were also entitled to claims from Malaysia.

"The claims were US$14.92 billion (RM68.50 billion), which now have increased supposedly due to interest up to US$16 billion (RM73.46 billion).

"The Sulu heir's legal letter has been answered by the Attorney-General, who stated that Malaysia's ability as a sovereign and independent Islamic country should not be underestimated," she said.

Azalina was speaking after the site visit to the New Pengerang Courthouse Development Project in Bandar Penawar Kota Tinggi here on Friday.

The Pengerang MP also questioned the Sulu heir's actions for not making the claims at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in the Netherlands but instead choosing to use the Commercial Arbitration Court.

"I challenge them (Sulu heirs) if they really want to claim their so-called rights on Sabah, go and claim them at the ICJ.

"This is a tactic for them to get money from Malaysia using the business law platform through the Commercial Arbitration Court.

"I see certain groups in western countries that are using the Sulu heirs to demand that Malaysia pay them money," she said.

Azalina said the government will observe the Paris Appeal Court's decision, which will make a partial award regarding the Sulu heirs claims.

"I have informed the lawyers that if the Sulu heirs lose their claims, Malaysia will have to claim the costs of appointing international lawyers," she said.