Article in P'sula-based paper offensive to Christians

By: Uhun Bunsihou 

I DO not normally read West Malaysian-based newspapers as they seldom focus on issues in Sabah unlike Daily Express. However, recently, I chanced upon a copy of Harian Metro's Sabah edition.

I was shocked to see an article in the newspaper which I believe is inappropriate for the general public, especially in a multi-religious country like Malaysia. The June 29th edition of Harian Metro's Sabah edition had an article entitled "Agenda Yahudi Pesong Akidah" (Jewish Agenda to Divert Faith) on page 10. The article was penned by one Fathul Bari Mat Jahya. The article was shallow as the premise of the argument was rather weak. But what struck me was the scathing accusation by the writer against the Christian belief in the Bible.

I believe such an accusation is against the Home Ministry's guidelines on what is permitted to publish. The writer showed little concern for the feelings of Christian readers, and with many Christians in the State, it shows the little regard the Daily has for religious sensitivity in Sabah.

People in Sabah have lived in harmony for generations. It is very sad to note that in the past 18 years many unhealthy trends which affect inter-faith harmony is being brought into the state. One example is the kind of article in a newspaper meant for the public like I have mentioned.

Accusations against a person's faith should not be allowed to appear in publications meant for the public. Dailies from West Malaysia should emulate Sabahan newspapers which seldom carry sensitive articles. In fact, even some letters I sent to the Daily Express never gets published as sometimes the Editor might think that they are sensitive, though mild compared to what is being written in some West Malaysian newspapers.

It is hoped the Home Ministry will take action against the newspaper mentioned and the writer of the article. We should teach these people to respect other people's faith and what living in a multi-religious society is all about. They are a threat to our Prime Minister's slogan of 1Malaysia.

Sources: Daily Express