Kota Kinabalu: Sayang Sabah Community Club has described the use of a "Catholic joke" by a Selangor Umno delegate during the recent Umno General Assembly 2026 as inappropriate and insensitive towards the Christian community.
Its deputy president, Steve Johnny Mositun (pic), said religious figures, holy scriptures, and the beliefs of any community should not be turned into fodder for jokes, especially on a national political stage.
"Malaysia is a plural nation, and the harmony we enjoy depends on mutual respect between religions and races, not only in calm times but also in how leaders choose their words," he said in a statement on Monday.
He noted that the matter resonates deeply with Sabahans, who have long practised living in a multi-religious and multiracial society in mutual respect.
Steve said freedom of speech or humour must not be used as an excuse to set aside religious sensitivities, especially when involving priests, nuns, and references to sacred scriptures.
He added that inaccurate religious references could mislead the public and create the impression that holy texts can be cited at will merely to draw laughter.
"Humour has its place in politics, but religion also has boundaries of respect that must be understood by all parties," he said.
He urged all leaders to be more cautious when choosing their words to ensure religion is not turned into a subject of ridicule that could hurt feelings and undermine the harmony of Malaysians.
