World · Malaysia Bureau
Kuching Archbishop Urges Respect for All Faiths, Condemns Divisive Rhetoric
The Roman Catholic Church in Sarawak has called for greater religious sensitivity after remarks about priests and nuns sparked controversy. Church leaders say divisive language undermines interfaith harmony in the region.
LSN Malaysia ·
The Archbishop of Kuching has urged public figures to refrain from making inflammatory statements about religious communities, following comments that drew criticism from Malaysia's Catholic population. Simon Poh stressed the importance of respecting all faiths as a foundation for social cohesion. The appeal comes after remarks attributed to a senior Umno figure in Sepang regarding Catholic clergy were deemed insensitive by members of the faith community. Church officials said such commentary risks deepening religious divisions and eroding the goodwill built through years of interfaith dialogue. The statement underscores ongoing concerns about the role of political rhetoric in shaping religious attitudes across Malaysia. Religious leaders across denominations have increasingly called for greater care in public discourse, particularly when discussing matters of faith. The Archbishop's intervention reflects broader efforts by Malaysia's religious communities to maintain peaceful coexistence amid periodic instances of inflammatory speech.