By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Nov 24: Bukit Semuja assemblyman John Ilus has called upon the relevant authorities to thoroughly investigate and resolve the Christmas carol controversy, emphasising the importance of preserving unity in Sarawak.
He expressed dismay at the sudden sensitivity surrounding the Christmas song ‘O Holy Night,’ traditionally enjoyed on various media platforms during the festive season.
The controversy arose when the Association of Churches in Sarawak (ACS) decided to withdraw from participating in an upcoming Christmas programme after the organiser allegedly declined a request from ACS to change the carol from ‘Jingle Bells Rock’ to ‘O Holy Night’ citing religious elements and adhering to protocols set by the Film Censorship Board (LPF) and the Malaysian Communication and Multimedia Commission (MCMC).
“The ACS, being a coalition of churches, serves as the custodian of the Christian faith in Sarawak. They possess the knowledge to select suitable songs for specific occasions.
“I feel sad and disappointed that such a thing could affect the ‘A Christmas Carol, Sarawak in Diversity’ programme scheduled to take place in Padang Merdeka on Dec 3 in which Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg is expected to officiate,” he said when participating in the debate of Sarawak Budget 2024 in the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) Sitting today.
The Christmas event is organised by TVS and supported by the Unit of Other Religions (Unifor) under the Premier’s Department. — DayakDaily
