Kota Kinabalu: The United Sabah Islamic Association (Usia) and several Islamic non-governmental organisations in Sabah have urged the authorities to review the approval granted for international artiste Israel Houghton’s concert here next month.
The groups also said they would lodge a police report to seek further investigation into the matter.
The “Israel & New Breed – Till The Whole World Knows Tour 2026” is scheduled to be held at Hakka Hall here on Oct 22 at 8pm.
In a joint statement, the groups said their objection was based on humanitarian concerns and solidarity with the Palestinian people, and was not motivated by religious or racial considerations.
They alleged that Houghton had openly expressed support for Israel and made posts on his personal social media accounts that they regarded as supportive of the country.
“Such an open position touches on public sensitivities, particularly at a time when the world continues to witness the suffering of the Palestinian people,” the statement said.
Usia and the other NGOs said they respected freedom of religion and rejected all forms of hatred.
However, they stressed that Sabah’s social harmony should be prioritised and called on the relevant authorities to reassess the approval for the concert.
They said a police report would also be lodged to seek further investigation.
The groups urged Sabahans to remain calm and channel any objections peacefully through lawful means.
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