IN response to a suggestion put forth by Upko’s Datuk Seri Wilfred Madius Tangau proposing the branding of Sabah and Sarawak as “the Other Malaysia” to sidestep divisive issues like the recent “Allah” socks controversy, leaders from East Malaysia have expressed their disagreement, stating that such a label would not accurately represent their role within the nation.
The proposal aimed at shielding Sabah and Sarawak from being embroiled in contentious issues prevalent in the peninsula has been met with skepticism by prominent figures from the region.
Bandar Kuching MP Dr Kelvin Yii, instead, advocated for a more inclusive approach where the two states play a pivotal role in leading the entirety of Malaysia.
“While we understand the sensitivities of these issues, many other matters deserve our full focus, especially rebuilding our economy, pushing for good governance and ensuring that our region is not left out of proper development,” Yii said.
Warisan vice-president Junz Wong echoed similar sentiments, noting the necessity for politicians to prioritise pressing matters such as economic recovery, good governance and equitable development across the nation rather than succumbing to divisive rhetoric.
He stressed the importance of addressing systemic discrimination and marginalisation faced by the people of Sabah and Sarawak, urging for concrete actions towards achieving fair federal policies and allocations to foster growth in the Bornean states.
“There is so much evidence that we are being discriminated (against) and sidelined, and that so many (people) are systematically marginalised.”
In contrast to the religious and racial tensions seen in Peninsular Malaysia, Movement for Change Sarawak founder Francis Paul Siah pointed out the unique harmony and unity prevalent in Sabah and Sarawak.
Siah expressed dismay over recent acts of violence including a petrol bomb attack on a KK Mart outlet in Kuching, claiming that extremism has no place in Sarawak’s peaceful coexistence.
“Religion is not so much of a dividing factor (in Sabah and Sarawak), but a unifying factor. That’s why (the two states are) different (from Peninsular Malaysia)
“I was shocked to hear of the recent petrol bomb attack on a KK Mart outlet in Kuching, adding that extremism ‘should not have come into Sarawak’.”
Moreover, the attack on the KK Mart outlet in Kuching marks the third such incident within a week, following similar assaults on outlets in Bidor, Perak, and Kuantan, Pahang. These attacks stem from controversy ignited by the discovery of socks featuring the word “Allah” in a KK Mart outlet in Bandar Sunway, triggering calls for a nationwide boycott by UMNO Youth. – April 4, 2024
Main photo credit: MalayMail
