Focus on unity, says Jeffrey

Kota Kinabalu: Parti Solidariti Tanah Airku (Star) welcomed the decision of the Kuala Lumpur High Court to allow the use of the word ‘Allah’ and three other Arabic words in all Christian publications.

In a statement Thursday, Star President Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan (pic) said he was relieved the issue had finally been put to rest and the country and its people could finally move on. 

“This issue has been a source of discord among the people for so many years and I am glad we can finally move forward now.

“I hope no party will politicise the decision as this issue has never been about politics, but it is a legal matter to be decided by the court,” he said.

Kitingan, who is also Deputy Chief Minister, said focus should now be turned into healing the wounds caused by the over-politicisation of religious issues, including the use of Arabic terms in non-Muslim publications.

He said as a government of a multicultural and multi-religious society, the Sabah Government would concentrate its energies not only on the economic growth of Sabah, but also on ensuring the State’s image as an inclusive and united nation remains intact.

“In Sabah, we have always been united and respectful towards one another regardless of our religious and racial background.

“There has never been a problem with non-Muslims using Arabic words in their worship even before this landmark ruling,” he said.