Malaysia is a diverse nation, and with diversity, it’s only natural to have differing worldviews and opinions. One thing’s for certain though, nothing can shake our unity!
There was a bit of a commotion outside the Federal Court in Kuching recently when the city’s Catholic Archbishop Simon Poh left the courtroom after it was ruled yesterday (27th February) that only the Sarawak Shariah Court has jurisdiction over the bid by a Malay-Muslim and three Muslim converts to be officially recognised as Christians.
According to Malaysiakini, Poh stated that the Catholic church respected the decision as it came from the apex court.
As he was leaving the Federal Court, a large crowd of Muslim supporters appeared outside the court, who began cheering in support of the ruling.
Source: Malaysiakini
According to The Star, a group of aggressive youths confronted and heckled the Archbishop. However, the commotion didn’t last long after a group of Muslims surrounded Poh to protect and escort him from the area. Despite the commotion, Poh told the daily that he was not fazed by the aggressive youths, saying,
“There were many good people around to make sure I was okay. In Sarawak, we work as friends to maintain harmony in our state.”
“Let us not allow emotions to overcome everything. I’m sure the state authorities are watching and we will do our best to rebuild harmony.”
“As the Muslim groups become rowdier and louder (as you can see in the video), a group of Muslims and others escorted me safely (to) my vehicle pick-up at (the) roadside,” he told Malaysiakini.
Source: The Star
Meanwhile, Kuching police chief ACP Abang Ahmad Abang Julai told the daily,
“There was no attack on the archbishop. In fact, a group protected him as he left the court and walked to the car. Overall, the situation was under control and nobody was hurt.”
Hats off to the caring individuals who protected the archbishop. Let’s all do our best to emulate their behaviour and respect each other regardless of our differences!
Also read: Inspiring M’sians of Different Religions Show 1Malaysia Spirit by Fixing Up Old Chapel
