KOTA KINABALU: Oct 3, 2026 – Sabah Parti Warisan president Datuk Seri Panglima Mohd Shafie Apdal has urged the authorities to allow the concert by American Christian singer Israel Houghton to go ahead if all approval conditions and related regulations are met.
In a media statement, Shafie stressed that religious diversity is part of life in Sabah society and must be preserved through mutual respect and tolerance.
He said support for the freedom of Christians to attend the concert did not mean one had to agree with all the personal or political views of the artiste.
“If there are specific legal obstacles, the matter should be clearly stated,” he said, stressing that rules must be enforced fairly.
He said any security concerns should be addressed by the police with appropriate measures to ensure public order and protect those attending the event.
Shafie also opined that objections should not be the sole determinant of whether a religious gathering is held, as long as the event complies with the law.
At the same time, he recognised the right of the public to voice objections peacefully, without denying others the right to attend the programme.
He reminded that Muslims, Christians, Buddhists and followers of other faiths have lived together in Sabah for generations, and therefore differences in belief must be handled maturely.
In this regard, Shafie called on all parties to remain calm and respect one another, while the authorities were asked to facilitate the concert once all requirements are met.
He stressed that compliance with the law and respect for religious freedom must go hand in hand to preserve harmony in Sabah society.
Source: Warisan Media statement
