Introduction

For many Filipinos and some Filipino historians, a long-standing controversy surrounds the territory of Sabah. In this article, we will delve into the historical and political context of this dispute, examining why people in the Philippines believe that Sabah is part of their sovereign territory. We will also explore the current status of the claim and highlight the complexities of the situation.

Historical Background

The belief that Sabah is part of the Philippine territory is rooted in historical claims dating back to the Sultanate of Sulu. Historically, the old Sultan of Sulu had authority over parts of Sabah, which was known as North Borneo during the British colonial era. The British East India Company leased Sabah from the Sultan of Sulu in the late 19th century. In the 1960s, when the British Empire withdrew from East Asia, the British transferred the governance of Sabah to Malaya. Later, when Malaya separated from Singapore, it became the independent nation of Malaysia, incorporating Sabah as part of its territory.

Philippine Claims and Perspectives

The Philippine government asserts a claim to Sabah based on historical connections and the Treaty of Balibo. However, the belief is not universally shared among Filipinos. For many, the issue is not a prominent topic in everyday conversations. Instead, it is mainly a concern for the descendants of the old Sultan of Sulu, the Kiram family, who seek to reclaim control under Philippine governance. This claim is often driven by the desire to access the rich natural resources, particularly oil and gas deposits, which have contributed significantly to Malaysia's prosperity.

Referendum and Current Status

The situation is further complicated by the 1963 referendum conducted among the people of Sabah. When asked to choose between becoming part of Malaysia or remaining under British enosis (union with Greece), the majority of Sabahans opted for Malaysia. This outcome was largely influenced by the Sabahans' ethnic and religious identity, as well as the proximity and historical ties with the Malaysian population.

Future Prospects and Diplomatic Efforts

The Philippine government has recently reopened its claim to Sabah. The legal basis for this claim is the Treaty of Balibo, signed in 1962, which was not ratified by the Philippine government due to political pressures at the time. However, the current approach is to seek a diplomatic resolution based on the Rule of Law rather than military action. Additionally, recent developments, such as the $19 billion compensation awarded to the Kiram family by the British government, have reignited interest and discussions around the territorial dispute.

Conclusion

The debate over whether Sabah is part of the Philippine territory is complex and multifaceted. It involves historical claims, current political realities, and economic interests. While many Filipinos believe that Sabah belongs to the Philippines, the actual situation on the ground is quite different. The key to resolving this dispute lies in diplomatic negotiations and a commitment to the Rule of Law. This approach not only respects the historical context but also acknowledges the legitimate interests of the Malaysian population in Sabah.