Tenom: Sabah Murut Association (PMS) President Datuk Rubin Balang expressed regret over the remarks made by Parti Warisan Sabah President Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal, which he said has sparked controversy and dissatisfaction among the Murut community in Sabah.
“I received reports from various quarters, including Murut associations in Sabah, who were disappointed with Shafie’s speech during a recent party programme in Kalang, Melalap, where he allegedly said ‘Kalau Kafir Murut’ (If the infidel Murut), a statement which deeply touched the sensitivities of the Murut people.
“The word ‘kafir’ directed at the Murut community is highly sensitive and, upon reflection, it is a form of insult to the Murut ethnic group as a whole.
“Such words should never have been uttered by a political leader who has long understood the cultural and religious diversity of Sabah’s society, and once held the position of Chief Minister.
“The use of such extreme language has offended many, especially the Murut who comprise both Muslims and Christians, as it could provoke hatred and demean the dignity of an entire community,” he said in a statement, Tuesday.
He stressed that in Sabah and Sarawak, people live in a multi-religious and multi-ethnic environment. Therefore, the use of such harsh terms could undermine unity and harmony.
“Therefore, PMS also demands that Shafie apologise to the entire Murut community and exercise greater caution when making statements that involve elements of religion and ethnicity,” he stressed.
In SIPITANG, Sipitang Murut Community Association (PMMS) said Shafie’s remarks offended and tarnished the dignity and identity of Muruts.
The association felt the term “kafir” should not be used against any ethnic group, as it is derogatory, has the potential to create misunderstanding and could disrupt inter-ethnic and inter-religious harmony in Sabah.
“Therefore, PMMS, on behalf of the Murut community, demands that Shafie, as President of Parti Warisan, issue an open apology to the Murut community in Sabah.
“PMMS also urges all political leaders to be more cautious when making statements, particularly on matters involving race and religion.
“PMMS will continue to monitor and take the necessary steps to defend the dignity of the Murut people, so that they are not belittled or insulted by any party,” it said the statement.
All parties are urged to refrain from making remarks that could offend, particularly those related to the 3Rs — religion, race and royalty.
Sindumin Gagasan Rakyat Youth Chief Walter Antahar @ Fiqrie said a public explanation and apology is warranted from Shafie Apdal over the “Kafir” remark.
He said it was inappropriate terminology to be used by an experienced political leader.
“Such language offends me as a Murut Muslim,” Walter said. “The Murut people are not newcomers to Sabah, many of our leaders hold senior positions in various political parties across the State,” he said.
He said politics should not touch on religion, ethnicity or heritage, noting that the Murut people are among Sabah’s indigenous communities with constitutional rights recognised under the Malaysia Agreement 1963.
“Using such labels as insults or judgments against the Murut people is completely unacceptable,” he said.
He demanded a public explanation and apology from Shafie, pointing out that such statements could damage inter-racial and inter-religious harmony in Sabah.
“Sabah was built on ethnic and religious diversity. Any statement that mocks or insults any community threatens to divide our multicultural society, which is renowned for its unity,” he said.
He called on all political parties to stop exploiting racial and religious issues for political gain, pointing out that unity remains crucial for Sabah’s future.
