A recent dispute over alcoholic drinks has unexpectedly evolved into a political debate in Sarawak – a state long known for its inclusiveness and diversity.
The recent dispute surrounding alcoholic beverages has unexpectedly evolved into a political debate in Sarawak, a region long known for its inclusivity and multiculturalism.
This started when Sarawak Deputy Premier Dr Sim Kui Hian reportedly drew a comparison between the Land of Hornbill and Peninsular Malaysia.
It all began when the Deputy Premier of Sarawak, Dr Sim Kui Hian, was reported to have drawn a comparison between the Land of the Hornbill and Peninsular Malaysia. “Here (in Sarawak), we don’t face restrictions when we want to drink, unlike in Peninsular Malaysia. Here, we drink when we want – it’s not a big deal. That is our way of life,” said the president of the Sarawak United Peoples’ Party (SUPP).
According to a See Hua Daily report, Sim said the increasing respect for Sarawak is not due to any specific individual, but rather the result of the collective achievements of its people. “The Sarawak of 2015 and the Sarawak of 2025 are very different. In the past, people looked down on us.
“Today, the world is watching us. Within a decade, we have shifted from being looked down upon to being respected,” he said. The statement later went viral on social media, with many in the Sarawak Chinese community praising Sim for his stance.
Souce : Malaysiakini
Sarawak Bumiputera Defend Tiong
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.
