By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Sept 20: Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng has commended local craft beer producer Zebrew for swiftly withdrawing its “Santubong” beer from the market, describing the move as a show of tolerance and mutual respect that reflects Sarawak’s values.
Wee said the company’s action was exemplary and urged the public not to prolong the matter.
“They quickly responded by withdrawing the product. This shows that in Sarawak, we respect each other, our religions, our ideas, and our roles. The case should end here. There’s no need to add oil to fire,” he shared when asked to comment on the issue during his ShallWeeTalk live session today.
He stressed that Sarawak has always stood out for its culture of harmony and coexistence, where issues are often resolved swiftly through understanding rather than prolonged disputes.
“When there’s a problem, we start with the beauty of mutual respect and tolerance. Immediately we say, ‘OK, we will withdraw it, we respect what you have put forward’. Then we take it down, that’s it. The case ends. There is no need to stir up hatred,” he added.
He cautioned against politicising the issue or creating negativity, warning that certain parties might exploit such matters for their own agendas.
“This is not like the other controversies we’ve seen before. Here, the company responded immediately, solved the problem, and the case is closed. That’s the Sarawak way, creating a win-win situation without hurting anyone,” he said.
Zebrew announced the withdrawal of the “Santubong” beer two days ago following criticism, including from Santubong MP Dato Sri Nancy Shukri, who said naming an alcoholic product after Santubong was insensitive to the majority-Muslim community in the constituency.
“The company’s action in showing tolerance and mutual respect is exemplary. Let the issue end after actions have been taken. There is no need to create negativity or stir up the issue. In Sarawak, we respect each other, and that is what matters most,” Wee emphasised. — DayakDaily
