by David E.
KOTA KINABALU: Sept 14, 2026 — Tamparuli PBS division chief Dr Bonaventure Boniface has demanded an open apology from Sepang Umno division chief Datuk Noorazli Said over remarks alleged to have belittled religious beliefs involving Psalm 129.
Dr Bonaventure said religious texts and sacred vows should not be turned into jokes or inappropriate political punchlines.
“The insensitive joke involving a priest, a nun and Psalm 129, which was reportedly made by Sepang Umno division chief Datuk Noorazli Said at the Umno General Assembly, is deeply disappointing and unacceptable to our multi-faith society,” he said in a media statement here today.
He said harmony in Sabah is built on mutual respect, understanding and acceptance.
“In Sabah, our harmony is built on mutual respect, understanding and acceptance. As national leaders continue to remind us that issues relating to race, religion and the royal institution (3R) must not be raised irresponsibly, the same principle must apply to all parties, on every platform and regardless of political affiliation or coalition,” he said.
Dr Bonaventure stressed that Datuk Noorazli Said should immediately retract the statement and issue an unconditional open apology to the Christian community.
“Politics may differentiate us in terms of policies and principles, but politics should not divide us through disrespect for each other’s beliefs and religions,” he said.
He added that in a multiracial and multi-religious Malaysia, mutual respect is not an option.
“In a multiracial and multi-religious Malaysia, mutual respect is not an option. Rather, it is the foundation that unites us as a society and a nation,” he said.
