Preacher and philanthropist, Ebit Lew, posted yesterday (2 February) that he has to pause the aid he was providing for the inhabitants of the islands in Semporna, Sabah.
He explained that authorities informed him that he could be sentenced to either an RM100,000 fine or up to three years in prison. The cause of the possible fine or imprisonment was not made clear in his post.
However, Sabah Police Commissioner Datuk Hazani Ghazali said the program had to be stopped due to security reasons. The location involved was subject to a curfew and public safety order was a priority for the authorities, Harian Metro reported.
“A curfew was implemented to ensure that the waters were not invaded by terrorists who threatened the safety and well-being of the people of Sabah.”
Hazani added that they welcome the cooperation of any NGO to organise charity programs for the needy but these NGOs are encouraged to consult with authorities such as the police and the National Security Council (MKN).
“We have never issued any instructions or actions to stop the program organized by the volunteers.”
Semporna District Officer, Suhaimi Ejip, reaffirmed that there is no obstacle for Ebit Lew but he must first inform the purpose of the visit to the relevant parties as to the host in the district.
“I as the host welcome his arrival and appreciate it but when we enter the “house” of someone, we have to knock on the “door of the house” first, but he did not come to the Semporna District Office.”
According to Astro Awani, Suhaimi added that these programmes should be in accordance with protocol namely the application to erect the structure through the process under the Land Ordinance Chapter 68 (land application) first for the purpose of building Al-Quran and Fardu Ain Class (KAFA) in the island area.
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Also read: Ebit Lew Halts Aid in Sabah Islands, Says He Could Be Fined or Imprisoned If He Continues
