By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Nov 25: Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng has called for putting the Christmas carol controversy to rest while emphasising the importance of quelling tensions rather than fueling the ‘small fire’ and allowing others to exploit the situation which will bring nothing good for Sarawak.
Instead, he called upon Sarawakians to prioritise the preservation of unity and harmony that define Sarawak, which are qualities the people take pride in.
“This is Sarawak’s issue, so let Sarawakians handle it properly. Let’s not allow others to have the opportunity to stir the issues and create discord, which will not be good for our diverse community.
“It should be reminded that the Premier of Sarawak (Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg) has asserted his firm stand on religious or racial issues in Sarawak, where he found the fuss over Timah whisky and Chinese using chopsticks regarded as non-Malaysian previously, unnecessary.
“I believe there is some kind of misunderstanding; if not, there should be accountability measures taken,” he said during his ShallWeeTalk online session today.
Wee was referring to the Association of Churches in Sarawak’s (ACS) withdrawal from the upcoming ‘A Christmas Carol, Sarawak in Diversity’ programme due to the organiser, TVS’ alleged refusal to replace the Christmas carol song ‘Jingle Bells Rock’ with ‘O Holy Night’ which had caused much hoo-ha yesterday.
TVS, a Sarawak-based television station, clarified that the confusion resulted from miscommunication among the parties involved and emphasised that they did not intend to exclude ‘O Holy Night’. In fact, they were actively working to include the song in the performance.
Acknowledging his surprise at the issue, Wee reiterated that there is no need to add to the fire and go beyond the sensitive line, especially since TVS has clarified its position and, in a way, diffused the situation.
“I believe the misunderstanding was unintentional. Furthermore, we do not even know the head and tail of what had transpired.
“But often, issues can be resolved internally or personally, such as between departments or management. There must be solutions, as everyone is committed to the good of Sarawak.
“We always say we are different from others. No one is perfect, and we as humans are bound to make mistakes,” he added.
Wee urged a focus on respect and compromise, highlighting the significance of religious freedom and the need for Sarawakians, regardless of their religious backgrounds, to have a larger heart and learn from positive experiences.
“Like I always said, learn the good and not the bad. Do not let negativity influence the situation. We should move on from this issue and concentrate on advancing together as one Sarawak. Let’s put an end to it,” he said. — DayakDaily
