KOTA KINABALU: Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal says American Christian music singer Israel Houghton should be allowed to perform in Sabah as long as it meets the rules and obtains relevant approvals.
He said this would be in line with Sabah's multi-racial and multi-religious society that has co-existed in harmony with mutual respect for others' beliefs.
"Sabah has always drawn strength from its people living together across races and religions. This is not merely a slogan; it is how our towns, schools, markets and families have lived for generations. Every community must have the freedom to practice its faith peacefully with respect for one another," he said in a statement on Saturday (Oct 3).
"Supporting the freedom of Christians in Sabah to attend this gathering does not mean endorsing every personal or political view held by the visiting performer," he said.
He said the authorities must apply the rules fairly and if there is a specific legal obstacle, it should be stated clearly.
"People have the right to disagree and to express their objections peacefully. Those who wish to attend also deserve fair treatment and respect," he said.
He said everyone must uphold the law, protect peaceful religious practice and preserve the harmony that has always been Sabah's strength.
Houghton is expected to perform in Kota Kinabalu in October based on social media posts but no official application has been made to the Sabah government. Some groups have raised concerns about the event.
