Kota Kinabalu: The Sabah Literary Circle (SLC) marked its debut with a well-attended public discussion on the long-standing Sulu Claim, drawing academics, students, and members of the public to the Tanjung Aru Library here on Saturday.
The event, jointly organised with the Sabah State Library and the Borneo History Society (BHS), underscored growing public interest in revisiting key historical issues affecting Sabah.
The highlight of the programme was a presentation by historian Dr Shari Jeffri, who delivered an in-depth overview of the origins, legal context, and contemporary relevance of the Sulu Claim.
Drawing on historical treaties and archival records, he traced the dispute from its colonial roots to its present-day implications.
He explored not only the legal and political dimensions of the issue, but also its cultural and psychological impact on Sabahans, particularly in relation to identity and sovereignty.
Attendees responded positively to the balance between academic depth and accessible delivery.
The session was moderated by Datuk Dr Johan Samad, founder of the SLC, while Vynn Suren served as emcee.
Participants raised issues ranging from the claim’s standing under international law to the role of the federal government and the broader implications for Sabah’s autonomy, while also discussing how history is taught and understood within the state.
Speaking after the event, Johan described the programme as a strong start for the organisation.
He said the SLC was founded on the belief that discussions on literature, history, and ideas should be accessible beyond academic settings, adding that conversations such as the Sulu Claim are essential for Sabah’s development.
Participants continued informal discussions over refreshments after the session, reflecting the event’s emphasis on community engagement alongside intellectual exchange.
The SLC said the discussion marks the beginning of a broader series of public programmes focusing on history, literature, language, and the arts, with further details to be announced in the near future.
