By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, March 9: No police report has been lodged against the man who caused a commotion during Sunset Mass at St Joseph’s Cathedral here on March 8, says Roman Catholic Archbishop of Kuching Dato Dr Simon Poh.
The incident involved a man who allegedly made derogatory remarks against Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg. As the man was being escorted out of the cathedral, he continued to make more such remarks while police arrived to detain him.
Following the incident, there was a message making its rounds on social media which was said to have come from the man’s sister. In the message, she said that her brother was struggling with his mental health after the death of their mother.
In a statement issued today, Poh appealed to the public to support those who are struggling mentally and emotionally.
He said that as the situation was considered a medical one, no report was lodged, and he expressed gratitude to the police for stepping in and, later, for the medical intervention, which allowed the man to receive proper medical attention and treatment.
He also called upon members of the public not to post comments about or further spread videos and pictures of the incident.
“We know that mental disorder causes emotional distress like anxiety, (and) depression, that can be expressed in aggressive social behaviour and even suicidal tendency.
“Instead of condemning or causing further distress to the family, we are to reach out to offer help, reduce such stigma, and offer support to the caregivers and family members,” he said in his statement, adding that prayers could also be offered.
He also said that treating mental illness is the same as treating physical illness and urged everyone to understand that mental disorders are an illness which needs support and medical intervention.
“I appeal to everyone to be kind to the person. As Catholics, Christians, and people of goodwill, this event is an invitation to show mercy, kindness, and support for those who are struggling in life, especially with mental difficulties,” he said.
As Christians everywhere are currently observing Lent— 40 days of prayer, fasting, and spiritual discipline leading up to Easter—Poh called worshippers to be attentive towards those who are struggling and to practice kindness and compassion. — DayakDaily
