Sabah Umno: Unacceptable desecration of Quran could disrupt Sabah’s harmony, authorities must take legal action

KOTA KINABALU (March 11): Sabah Umno has strongly condemned a viral video purportedly showing the defacement of the Quran in the state, describing it as irresponsible and capable of inciting tension among communities in the state.

State Umno liaison secretary Samasuddin Yusop said the party views the alleged act, which purportedly involved stepping on and defiling the holy book of Islam, as extremely offensive and unacceptable.

“The act of stepping on and desecrating the holy book of Muslims is extremely outrageous, irresponsible, and could spark tension among communities of different religions and races in this state that have long lived in harmony,” he said in a statement.

Samasuddin said Sabah Umno supports the stand taken by State Religious Affairs Exco Datuk Arifin Arif, who stressed that the matter must not be compromised and should be thoroughly investigated by the authorities.

He called on the relevant agencies including the Royal Malaysia Police, Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission, Sabah Islamic Religious Affairs Department, and the Sabah Islamic Religious Council to conduct an immediate investigation and take firm action under the law against those responsible.

“As a state known for its harmonious plural society, Sabah cannot allow any party to carry out provocations that could hurt religious sensitivities and disrupt public peace,” he said.

Samasuddin also urged the public to remain calm and refrain from taking matters into their own hands, as well as allow the authorities to carry out a professional and fair investigation.

He said it is vital to defend the sanctity of religion while continuing to safeguard peace and unity, which have long been Sabah’s strength.

“Sabah Umno stands firm in defending the dignity of Islam and the sanctity of the Quran, while ensuring that interfaith harmony in this state continues to be preserved,” he added.