MP Questions Police on Israel Houghton Concert
Global Newsflix 1 min read
Malaysian MP Lim Lip Eng has questioned the police's decision to advise the state government to postpone US gospel singer Israel Houghton's concert in Sabah, citing lack of evidence that the event would promote hatred or violence. The concert is scheduled for October 22-25 in Kota Kinabalu. Former Sabah chief ministers Salleh Said Keruak and Shafie Apdal have backed calls for the concert to proceed if security concerns can be managed.
Key facts
- Israel Houghton's concert in Sabah has been advised to be postponed by the police.
- MP Lim Lip Eng has questioned the police's decision, citing lack of evidence of hatred or violence.
- Former Sabah chief ministers Salleh Said Keruak and Shafie Apdal have backed calls for the concert to proceed.
Three perspectives
Neutral
The police have received two reports about the proposed concert, citing community sensitivities and the singer's stance on Israel. The concert's organisers have yet to submit a formal application to the state government. The police's decision has sparked debate on the balance between public order and freedom of expression.
Positive
Former Sabah chief ministers Salleh Said Keruak and Shafie Apdal have called for the concert to proceed if security concerns can be reasonably managed, highlighting the importance of mutual respect and freedom of faith. The concert is part of Israel Houghton's international tour, with Sabah among his stops in Malaysia. This could be an opportunity for the community to come together and promote understanding.
Negative
The police's decision to advise the state government to postpone the concert has raised concerns about the potential for violence and public disorder. The concert's organisers have been accused of not following proper procedures, which has added to the controversy. The situation remains uncertain, with many questions still unanswered.