KOTA KINABALU: September 14, 2026 – Datuk Seri Wilfred Madius Tangau has criticised Sepang UMNO division chief Noorazli Said for citing Psalm 129 as joke material at the 2026 UMNO General Assembly.
Madius said the use of the Bible verse was inaccurate and inappropriate, especially when linked to a story about a Catholic priest and a nun.
Noorazli was reported to have told a story about a priest who gave a nun a lift. The priest’s hand touched the nun’s thigh while he was changing gears, after which the nun reminded him to remember “Psalm 129”. The story was then tied to a message about continuing to strive for success.
Madius stressed that the interpretation did not reflect the true meaning of Psalm 129. He questioned the appropriateness of using scripture as joke material without ensuring the accuracy of the reference.
He said matters concerning scripture and religious beliefs must be respected, especially in a multi-religious country. He urged Noorazli to retract the statement and apologise to the Catholic and Christian communities.
He stressed that freedom of speech or the freedom to joke was no excuse for misusing scripture quotations.
The speech was also linked to a political message on focus and efforts to achieve the party’s goals, including the leadership of UMNO president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
