Proposed bill restricting non-Muslim faiths triggers opposition in Sabah

[superadmin]

KOTA KINABALU – The “resurrection” of the proposed bill to restrict the propagation of non-Muslim religions has triggered a wave of opposition from Sabah leaders.

Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Mohd Noor said the state does not have sectarian issues and that the federal government should respect religious freedoms provided in the federal constitution and Malaysia Agreement 1963.

In a statement, he added that the state will oppose attempts by the federal government to introduce the Control and Restriction on the Propagation of Non-Muslim Religions Bill.

“Sabah is a multicultural and religious state, and our people have been living in harmony with each other for a very, very long time. We are respectful of the beliefs and race of others and there are no sectarian problems here.”

Sabah Star president Datuk Seri Jeffrey Kitingan expressed similar opposition in a statement while admitting it is too early to accuse the bill of infringing on religious freedom.

“It is too early to say whether this bill will violate the constitution, or more importantly for us in Sabah, the agreement carved on the Oath Stone, which guarantees freedom of religion here.

“I am concerned that this issue, which is completely unnecessary, will cause unprecedented discord among our people.”

Kitingan, who is also one of the deputy chief ministers, said while those advocating for the proposed bill may be justified, they should not be surprised if non-Muslims are already objecting to it.


- More -