Malaysia: UN chief encourages dialogue to peacefully resolve situation in Sabah

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today urged an end to violence and encouraged dialogue among all parties to peacefully resolve the situation in Sabah, Malaysia.

According to media reports, Malaysian troops are searching houses and terrain for armed members of a Filipino clan embroiled in a three-week conflict in Sabah on Borneo island. Related violence has reportedly left eight members of the Malaysian security forces and 19 clan members dead.

“The Secretary-General is closely following the situation in Sabah,” said a statement issued by his spokesperson. “He urges an end to the violence and encourages dialogue among all the parties for a peaceful resolution of the situation.”

Mr. Ban also expressed concern about the impact this situation may have on the civilian population, including migrants in the region.

“He urges all parties to facilitate delivery of humanitarian assistance and act in full respect of international human rights norms and standards,” said the statement.