When there’s too much NEGATIVITY TARGETTED AT A SARAWAKIAN POLITICAL LEADER (to the extent of DEMONIZING Sarawakians in general, suggesting that Sarawakian Ministers are SUB-STANDARD) just because he is acting just as he should, I say its not right & its time to talk some SENSE!
Firstly, it is NOT THE GOVERNMENT’s MONEY!
The specific event was paid for by the associations, and as the Minister mentioned, he used the platform to launch the VISIT MALAYSIA 2026 EVENTS CALENDAR!
I have clarified this with friends in the Ministry, so feel free to show proof of any receipts that GOVERNMENT’s MONEY WAS USED TO BUY DRINKS FOR THE FUNCTION.
Secondly, its a CULTURE THING!
The Minister is BUDDHIST & THE PEOPLE KNOW THIS.
The Minister has NO PROHIBITIONS for him to drink & THE PEOPLE KNOW THIS.
So AT THE END OF THE FUNCTION, when the people (NON-MUSLIM GUESTS) ask if they could have a drink with the Minister, what do you expect him to say????
A big fat NO??? Politely maybe????
For sure they’ll be giving him a weird look!
Imagine if this was at a longhouse in Kapit & the people invite the Minister to join them for a drink.
Should the Minister DECLINE THIS REQUEST (knowing well that he CAN LEGALLY DRINK – by virtue of the law & him being a non-Muslim), I can bet you that the first thing the people will say is: SOMBONG !
EITHER SAYING ‘SOMBONG!’ STRAIGHT TO HIS FACE OR QUIETLY TO THEMSELVES, IF HE DECLINES THAT IS.
Same goes to if after a function, the people request the Minister for A QUICK PHOTO.
IF THE MINISTER DECLINES THIS REQUEST (knowing that he CAN LEGALLY TAKE A PHOTO – for WHATEVER REASON & that the TIME PERMITS), I can bet you that the people will say THE EXACT SAME THING: SOMBONG !
Yes, he might be a bit rough around the edges.
He might not even meet your expectations of what you think a Minister should be like.
But think about it, although a Minister, he is just acting as he should:
Culturally as a Sarawakian, religion-wise as a Buddhist, and PERSONALLY, as a FRIENDLY HUMAN BEING – not easy to say NO to simple things like sharing a drink!
You know what I usually do, with many of my other Muslim friends attending such a function?
Towards the end of such functions, we would just quietly excuse ourselves & let the others enjoy their evening.
Our non-Muslim friends respects this & understands us not drinking with them.
They dont IMPOSE ON US MUSLIMS, SO DONT DO THE SAME TO OUR NON-MUSLIM FRIENDS.
Just keep in mind one thing, THE MORE YOU MAKE A BIG FUSS OUT OF THIS, THE MORE WE WILL GROW APART AS MALAYSIANS!
Sarawak’s Lesson in Tolerance: A Model for Malaysia
The controversy surrounding Tiong reveals a deeper issue: the tendency of some in Peninsular Malaysia to impose rigid cultural or religious expectations on others, particularly non-Muslims. This approach, often laced with extremist or racially charged undertones, stands in stark contrast to the ethos of Sarawak’s Muslim community, which exemplifies tolerance and respect for diversity. Sarawak’s Bumiputera Muslims, including the Malays, have long lived harmoniously alongside non-Muslims, embracing a model of coexistence that Peninsular Malaysia’s more divisive voices could learn from.
Key Lessons from Sarawak’s Muslims
- Rejecting Imposition: Sarawak’s Muslims do not impose their beliefs on non-Muslims, nor do they expect others to conform to their practices. As one Sarawakian Bumiputera put it, “They don’t impose on us Muslims, so don’t impose on our non-Muslim friends.” This mutual respect is a cornerstone of Sarawak’s social fabric, where cultural practices like sharing tuak or hosting inclusive gatherings are celebrated, not condemned.
- Patience and Respect in Islamic Teachings: Islamic teachings emphasize patience (sabr) and respect for others’ cultures and beliefs. Sarawak’s Muslims embody this by fostering harmony rather than discord. They understand that demonizing non-Muslims for lawful practices, like Tiong’s participation in a cultural toast, creates unnecessary division.
- Walking the Talk: Sarawak is a living example of what it means to be a true Muslim in a diverse society. Unlike some critics who fuel false allegations or push personal beliefs onto others, Sarawakians prioritize unity. Their inclusive approach—seen in mixed gatherings, shared festivals like Gawai and Hari Raya, and mutual respect—demonstrates how faith and diversity can coexist.
- Countering Extremism and Racism: The harsh criticism of Tiong, including remarks labeling Sarawakians as “sub-standard,” reflects a troubling undercurrent of extremism and prejudice. Sarawak’s Muslims challenge this by showing that tolerance, not imposition, strengthens communities. Peninsular Malaysia’s more vocal critics should take note: forcing one’s way of life on others only sows disharmony.
Source : Reza-Rizvy Ahmad
The Funding Clarification: It’s Not the Government’s Money
First and foremost, let’s address the core misconception fueling much of the outrage: the notion that public funds were used to purchase alcohol. The gala dinner was organized and funded by private tourism associations, including the Malaysian Inbound Tourism Association (MITA) and the Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA), not by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) or Tourism Malaysia. Minister Tiong has repeatedly clarified that his ministry merely utilized the platform to launch the Visit Malaysia 2026 Events Calendar—a key initiative aimed at boosting tourism ahead of the nation’s milestone year.
To date, no evidence has surfaced showing government money was spent on alcoholic beverages. In fact, Tiong has invited critics to review the event’s billings to confirm this. If receipts or proof exist indicating otherwise, they should be presented transparently. Until then, painting this as a misuse of taxpayer funds is baseless and distracts from the event’s positive outcomes, such as promoting Malaysia’s tourism sector on a global stage.
A Matter of Culture and Religion: Understanding Sarawakian Norms
Beyond the funding, the criticism ignores crucial cultural and religious contexts. Minister Tiong, a Sarawakian of Chinese descent, is a non-Muslim—specifically, he has publicly identified as such, with no religious prohibitions against consuming alcohol. In Sarawak, where diverse ethnic groups like the Iban, Bidayuh, and Chinese communities coexist, sharing a drink at social gatherings is a longstanding cultural practice that fosters camaraderie and respect.
Imagine the scenario: At the end of the function, non-Muslim guests approach the minister for a casual drink. Should he decline outright? In Sarawakian culture, such a refusal could be perceived as arrogant or “sombong”—a term that carries significant social weight, implying aloofness or disrespect. This is akin to turning down an invitation for tuak (rice wine) at a longhouse in Kapit, a traditional Iban setting where hospitality is paramount. Declining without good reason might alienate the very people a leader is meant to connect with.
Similarly, compare this to other everyday interactions. If guests request a quick photo with the minister after an event, and he refuses despite having the time and no legal barriers, the reaction would likely be the same: whispers of “sombong.” Tiong, known for his straightforward and approachable style, was simply acting in line with his cultural roots as a Sarawakian, his religious freedom as a Buddhist-leaning non-Muslim, and his personal demeanor as a friendly public figure. He may not fit the polished image some expect of a federal minister, but authenticity should not be mistaken for impropriety.
Mutual Respect: Lessons from Interfaith Harmony
In a multicultural society like Malaysia, mutual respect is key to harmony. Many Muslims, including myself, attend functions where alcohol is present but choose to excuse ourselves politely toward the end, allowing others to enjoy the evening without imposition. Non-Muslim friends understand and respect this choice—just as we should respect theirs.
The minister’s defenders, including Sarawak’s state Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, have echoed this sentiment, warning that overreacting to such matters could harm Malaysia’s tourism industry by alienating international visitors who expect cultural inclusivity. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has issued a stern warning to Tiong and MOTAC, emphasizing that alcohol should not be served at official government events, even if the program has concluded. While this reinforces policy, it also highlights the need for clearer guidelines to prevent future misunderstandings.
However, escalating this into a national scandal does more harm than good. Tourism players have come forward to defend Tiong, noting the event’s success in fostering industry ties and that alcohol was served post-official proceedings. Politicizing the issue, as seen in calls from parties like UMNO and PAS, risks exploiting religious sensitivities for gain rather than promoting unity.
Toward Unity: Let’s Not Grow Apart as Malaysians
At its core, this controversy reveals deeper tensions between Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia. Labeling Sarawakian leaders as “sub-standard” or demonizing an entire community for one incident ignores Sarawak’s rich contributions to the nation, from its biodiversity to its economic role. Sarawakians, like all Malaysians, deserve respect for their customs.
The more we amplify division over such matters, the further we drift apart. Instead, let’s focus on building bridges—appreciating differences while upholding shared values. Minister Tiong has expressed regret over the confusion and pledged stricter oversight. Moving forward, this should serve as a reminder for all: in Malaysia’s tapestry of cultures, empathy and facts must prevail over knee-jerk reactions. Only then can we truly embody “Malaysia Madani.”
