(Kuching, 15th) The Premier of Sarawak and Chairman of the Sarawak Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB), Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, expressed puzzlement as to why attending a Chinese wedding, sitting on a Dayak gong, or non-Muslims wearing a songkok hat would cause such a big controversy!
Speaking at the 16th PBB General Assembly held at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching, he expressed confusion over recent proposals to issue guidelines restricting Muslims from participating in non-Muslim events and celebrations.
He said, this is our culture where everyone respects, accepts, and tolerates one another, and it would not lead to our division. For example, there are rules about Muslim and non-Muslim marriages. If Douglas invites me to his child's wedding, what should I do? Should I tell him to wait until I check the relevant guidelines? It's too absurd!
Abang Johari emphasized that Sarawak has long embraced interethnic marriages, hence such restrictive guidelines are impractical. He cited examples of some places in Sarawak where mosques and churches stand side by side, exemplifying religious harmony.
“If we follow certain books, should we visit the church or the mosque first? Should we argue about this? Under the post-pandemic development strategy, we are taking care of Sarawak’s welfare while ensuring equality and balance.”
He also quoted the late Chief Minister Tan Sri Adenan Satem, saying, “Kita Jaga Sarawak baik-baik,” and urged Sarawakians to look after each other and avoid conflicts.
Additionally, he further explained how culture and traditions should be accepted rather than restricted.
“At Chinese weddings, there is a tea ceremony. We drink tea because it's part of the culture—what's wrong with that? If Dayak weddings require sitting on the gong, what's wrong with that? If non-Muslims marry Muslims and need to wear a songkok, then wear it! What's the big fuss?”
He emphasized that one's belief in religion is a personal relationship with God, quoting the Quranic term “Hablullah” to highlight individual responsibility to faith.
He dismissed superficial judgments and said, “Some might see Abang Johari wearing a batik shirt without a hat and think I don’t believe in Islam. But how would you know? It's between me and God, just like praying.”
He emphasized that Islam teaches understanding and respect among people.
“There are two main pillars – observing our relationship with Allah and with one another. As Douglas emphasized, you are not alone, PBB is not alone, because we cooperate with the SUPP, PRS, and PDP, which is why we have mutual understanding as long as we don’t attack each other.”
Abang Johari reiterated Sarawak's commitment to inclusivity, highlighting PBB's role in serving all communities, particularly as it is the only state in Malaysia that has established a Unit for Other Religions (Unifor) to ensure the well-being of other faiths.
“In return, they pray for Sarawak's welfare according to their beliefs, it depends on them.”
He also pointed out the state government’s assistance to missionary schools, emphasizing the importance of education.
“If our children perform well academically, that's our pride. As a Muslim, I helped them, and I know I am blessed. And PBB is blessed because you support me. In economics, this is called a value chain, and we must continue to work together for Sarawak's future.”