Mustapha Sakmud condemns Quran defacement in viral video, says it doesn’t reflect Sabahans’ values

KOTA KINABALU (March 11): Sabah and Sarawak Affairs Minister Datuk Mustapha Sakmud has strongly condemned a viral video purportedly showing the defacement of the Quran in the state.

He described the video, which purportedly shows a copy of the Quran being stepped on and defaced with offensive drawings, as outrageous, uncivilised, and contrary to the principles of the Rukun Negara.

“I strongly condemn and denounce this rude act of insulting the holy book of Muslims, the Al-Quran, as circulated on social media recently,” he said in a statement.

Mustapha said the act constituted a crime and was especially offensive as it occurred during the holy month of Ramadan.

He stressed that such behaviour did not reflect the values of Sabahans, who have long upheld harmony and mutual respect among those of different races and religions.

“Any form of insult towards religion must not be taken lightly as it not only touches the sensitivities of Muslims but also has the potential to disrupt harmony in Sabah’s multiracial society and across the country,” he said.

Mustapha added that Malaysia was built on a foundation of mutual respect among religions and cultures, and acts of provocation were clearly against those values.

He expressed full support for the authorities, including the police, to conduct a thorough investigation and take firm legal action against those responsible.

“Strict action must be taken as a lesson and to ensure that the dignity of religion is always preserved,” he said.He also urged the public not to take matters into their own hands and to allow the authorities to carry out investigations fairly and transparently.

“Full trust should be given to the authorities so that stability, harmony, and unity among the people of Sabah and throughout the country can continue to be safeguarded,” he added.