Sarawak Rejects Unnecessary Religious Restrictions, Says GPS Leader

PETALING JAYA – A Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) component has added its voice to the criticism against the proposed guidelines restricting Muslims from attending non-Muslim festivities, funerals, or events at non-Muslim places of worship.

The Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) emphasized that Sarawak has no official religion and that any religious guidelines must respect the state’s secular nature.

Religious Harmony Without Overregulation

SUPP secretary-general Sebastian Ting pointed out that Sarawak has long been a model of religious tolerance and harmony, where people of different faiths coexist peacefully and celebrate each other’s traditions.

“We find the proposed guidelines unnecessary and excessive. Sarawak does not need such restrictions,” he stated.

SUPP believes that over-regulating religious practices and being overly cautious about religious sensitivities – when such issues are not real concerns for the people – can create unnecessary division.

“Sarawak thrives on organic religious harmony because its people practice mutual respect without excessive interference,” Ting added.

Dialogue, Not Restrictions, is the Way Forward

Ting, who also serves as a state deputy minister, suggested that a better approach would be to promote dialogue, understanding, and awareness of religious diversity while allowing Malaysians to freely maintain their traditions.

He stressed that there must be a balance between respecting religious beliefs and ensuring that government policies do not unintentionally foster intolerance.

“Sarawak proves that trust and natural coexistence work better than excessive control,” he concluded.

Controversial Guidelines Under Review

The proposed guidelines, which have sparked widespread debate, are set to be discussed in the Cabinet today.

Under the draft rules:

Events cannot include religious propaganda, speeches, or performances that may be deemed offensive to Muslims.

Religious symbols of other faiths cannot be displayed at the premises.

Organizers must obtain permission from relevant authorities and seek input from Islamic authorities if their event involves Muslims.

The guidelines have faced strong opposition, including from Bangi MP Syahredzan Johan, who warned that they could complicate matters for Muslim MPs.